Uttarakhand: In a major festive relief to state government employees and teachers, the Uttarakhand government has approved a 3% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) along with the Diwali bonus for the financial year 2024–25. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has given his nod to both long-pending demands, benefitting over 2.5 lakh state employees and teachers across the state.
3% DA Increase Approved
According to the official order issued by the Finance Department, the state government employees will now receive a 3% increase in their DA, effective from July 1, 2025. The revised DA will be paid along with the October salary, while the arrears for July to September will be released separately. This decision brings Uttarakhand state employees’ DA at par with the central government rates.
Diwali Bonus Announced
Along with the DA hike, the government has also approved the payment of Diwali bonus for Group ‘C’, Group ‘D’, and non-gazetted employees for the financial year 2024–25. Each eligible employee will receive a maximum bonus of ₹7,000. The bonus amount will be calculated based on the employee’s service duration and attendance up to 31 March 2025. Those who have worked for at least six months continuously till this date will be eligible for the bonus.
Relief for Daily Wage and Casual Workers
In addition to regular employees, the government has extended benefits to daily wage and casual workers as well. As per the order, those who have worked for at least 240 days in a year will be given a bonus of ₹1,200, subject to certain conditions. This decision is expected to provide financial relief to thousands of contractual and daily wage workers before the festive season.
Promotion and Transfer Relief Measures
Along with financial announcements, the Dhami government has also approved key administrative measures — including stabilization of promotion criteria for employees, enhanced promotion opportunities for Anganwadi workers, and relief in transfer procedures for the Health Department staff.
Festive Cheer for Government Employees
The twin announcement of the DA hike and Diwali bonus ahead of the festive season has been welcomed by government employees and unions alike. This move not only strengthens the morale of state employees but also reflects the government’s commitment to employee welfare and financial stability amid rising inflation.
