After years of delay and repeated requests, the central government has approved the release of the 18-month Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears. This news has brought great joy to over 1.15 crore central government employees and pensioners across the country. For many, this payment comes as a big financial relief and a reward for their patience and service during difficult times.
What Are These Arrears About?
Back in early 2020, the government had paused DA payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The economic impact of the pandemic was heavy, and as a cost-saving measure, the government decided to freeze DA hikes from January 2020 to June 2021. Although the DA hikes resumed after June 2021, the pending arrears for those 18 months were never paid. Since then, employee unions have been regularly requesting the government to release this money.
Finally, after much discussion and pressure from employee unions, the finance ministry has given the green signal to release these pending arrears.
Who Will Receive This Money?
This move will benefit:
Over 50 lakh central government employees
Around 65 lakh pensioners
All those who were working or receiving pensions during the freeze period from January 2020 to June 2021 are eligible to receive the arrears. This includes retired employees as well.
How Much Will You Get?
The amount each person receives will depend on their basic salary, pay level, and grade pay. For example:
An employee with a basic pay of around ₹18,000 could get ₹11,000 to ₹15,000.
Higher-level officers may receive ₹40,000 or more.
This is because the DA rates changed during those 18 months, and the arrears will be calculated based on the applicable percentage for each month in that period.
Departments are now working on the exact calculations, and individual figures may vary.
Also Read:
Ticket Booking System: Train Ticket Booking Rules to Change from May 1 – Check 3 Major Updates
When Will the Payment Happen?
The finance ministry has instructed all departments to begin the calculation and payment process immediately. Most employees and pensioners can expect the arrears to be added to their salary or pension in the current month. However, the exact date may vary depending on how quickly each department completes the process.
Full Payment or in Installments?
Here’s an important point: not everyone will receive the full arrears in one payment. Some departments may choose to pay the full amount at once, while others may release it in two or three installments. You will be informed by your department about how the arrears will be paid.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
The freeze in DA was a tough time, especially for lower and middle-income employees. With prices rising and daily expenses increasing, the delay in arrears had put pressure on many families. Employee unions like the National Council of JCM had been raising this issue for a long time.
Now that the government has agreed to release the money, it is seen as a major victory for these unions and a sign of respect for the service of government employees and pensioners during the pandemic.
What Should You Do Now?
If you are a government employee or pensioner, here’s what you should do:
Check for official communication from your department about the arrears.
Look at your salary slip or pension statement for this month to see the updated figures.
If you don’t receive the payment this month, don’t worry—some departments may take more time.
In case of any confusion, contact your office administration or accounts department.
Final Thoughts
The release of 18-month DA arrears is more than just a financial update—it’s a sign of recognition for those who continued working through one of the toughest times in recent history. For many families, this money will help pay off debts, handle monthly expenses, or simply bring a little peace of mind.
This long-awaited payment is a well-deserved reward. So, check your statements and get ready for that extra income—it’s finally on the way.
