7th Pay Commission: Punjab Govt Announces 4% DA Hike for its Employees

Chandigarh: On the eve of Diwali , Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a hike of 4 percent in Dearness Allowance for government employees and matching Dearness Relief to pensioners. The dearness allowance has been increased to 42 per cent from 38 per cent.

"A small gift from me to the employees on the occasion of Diwali. It has been decided to increase dearness allowance and dearness relief to 4 per cent (increased from 38 per cent to 42 per cent) for government employees and pensioners from November 1, 2024. With which more than 6.50 lakh employees and pensioners of the state will benefit. Happy Diwali to you all," Mann said in a post on X.

The nation is set to celebrate Diwali on October 31, marking the start of five days of festivities that begin with Dhanteras. Known as the 'Festival of Lights,' Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The celebrations, which span from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, see families decorating their homes with lamps, sharing sweets, and participating in joyful gatherings, embodying unity and hope.