The Centre is likely to increase dearness allowance (DA) on Tuesday by 6 per cent to 51 per cent, benefiting over 50 lakh employees and 38 lakh pensioners.
The decision to hike DA is likely to be taken by the Union Cabinet at its meeting, sources said.
The new DA, which will be effective from January 1, is provided to government staff and pensioners to compensate them for rising prices.
Presently, the DA is paid at 45 per cent of the basic pay.
The increase in DA by 6 per cent, sources said, would be in accordance with the formula prescribed by the Sixth Pay Commission for central government employees.
The decision will provide direct relief to around 50 lakh employees and 38 lakh pensioners.
The DA is revised twice in year with effect from January 1 and July 1.
The relief comes amid high retail prices, as inflation has been ruling above 9 per cent.
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/govt-may-hike-da-by-6-for-employees-pensioners/765332/