The West Bengal government has announced a 4% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for over 10 lakh state government employees and pensioners. This latest increase is set to take effect from April 1, 2025, providing much-needed financial relief amid rising inflation. With this revision, the total DA for WB government employees now stands at 18% of their basic pay.
DA Hike: Salary of 10 Lakh WB Govt Employees Gets a Boost
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| DA Hike Percentage | 4% Increase |
| Effective Date | April 1, 2025 |
| Beneficiaries | Over 10 lakh WB govt employees & pensioners |
| Total DA after Hike | 18% of Basic Pay |
| Example Calculation | ₹25,500 basic salary → ₹4,590 DA per month |
| Official Source | West Bengal Government Website |
The 4% DA hike for West Bengal government employees is a welcome relief that will positively impact over 10 lakh employees and pensioners. While the DA rate remains lower than that of central government employees, this increase reflects the state’s commitment to supporting its workforce.
With additional funds allocated for infrastructure, education, and rural development, the West Bengal Budget 2025-26 aims to improve the quality of life for residents while ensuring economic stability.
What is Dearness Allowance (DA)?
Dearness Allowance (DA) is an additional component of salary provided to government employees and pensioners to help them cope with inflation and rising costs of living. It is revised periodically based on the All-India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) and other economic indicators. The WB government’s latest decision to increase DA by 4% comes as a relief to employees struggling with increased expenses.
Why is DA Important?
- Compensates for inflation: As prices rise, DA ensures that employees’ purchasing power remains stable.
- Encourages employee satisfaction: Regular DA hikes show the government’s commitment to its workforce.
- Boosts local economy: Higher salaries mean increased spending, stimulating economic growth.
How Will This DA Hike Impact Salaries?
To help you understand how the new DA hike will affect monthly earnings, here’s a breakdown of salary calculations:
| Basic Salary (₹) | Old DA @ 14% (₹) | New DA @ 18% (₹) | Increase in Monthly Pay (₹) |
| 25,500 | 3,570 | 4,590 | 1,020 |
| 35,400 | 4,956 | 6,372 | 1,416 |
| 53,100 | 7,434 | 9,558 | 2,124 |
| 67,000 | 9,380 | 12,060 | 2,680 |
Employees receiving ₹35,400 basic salary will now get an additional ₹1,416 per month, while those with ₹53,100 basic pay will receive ₹2,124 extra per month.
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West Bengal Budget 2025-26 and DA Hike
The DA hike announcement was a key highlight of the West Bengal Budget 2025-26, presented by the government with a total outlay of ₹3.89 lakh crore. Apart from DA revision, the budget also focuses on rural development, infrastructure projects, and social welfare initiatives.
Major Budget Allocations:
- ₹1,500 crore for ‘Pathashree’ road construction scheme.
- ₹200 crore for ‘Nodi Bondhon’ project to combat river erosion.
- ₹5,000 crore for health and education sector improvements.
Comparison with Central Government Employees
State government employees in WB have long demanded parity with central government employees in terms of DA benefits. Currently, central government employees receive 50% DA, significantly higher than WB government employees’ 18% DA.
| Category | DA Percentage |
| Central Govt Employees | 50% (Expected April 2025) |
| WB State Govt Employees | 18% (April 2025) |
FAQs
1. When will the new DA hike come into effect?
The 4% DA hike for West Bengal government employees and pensioners will be applicable from April 1, 2025.
2. How much additional salary will employees receive?
The increase in salary depends on the basic pay. For example, an employee with a ₹35,400 basic salary will get an extra ₹1,416 per month.
3. Will pensioners also benefit from this hike?
Yes, all state government pensioners will receive the same 4% increase in DA, helping them manage rising living costs.
4. Why is there a gap between state and central government DA rates?
State governments set their own DA rates based on financial feasibility, while the central government follows its own revision formula.
5. Where can I check my updated salary details?
Employees can visit the West Bengal Government’s Official Website for official notifications and salary calculations.
