4% Hike in Dearness Allowance for Employees and Pensioners
On the eve of Diwali, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees and a matching Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. This festive gift will benefit over 6.5 lakh employees and pensioners in the state.
The DA has been increased from 38% to 42%, effective November 1, 2024. This decision comes as a welcome relief for government employees and pensioners, especially during the festive season.
"A small gift from me to the employees on the occasion of Diwali," said Mann in a social media post. "Happy Diwali to you all."
The Festival of Lights
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a five-day celebration that begins with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhai Dooj. It is a time for families to decorate their homes with lamps, share sweets, and participate in joyous festivities. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
This year, Diwali falls on October 31st, marking the beginning of the five-day festivities. The festival embodies unity, hope, and the victory of good over evil.