Recently, an important news has come out for central government employees. During the COVID-19 pandemic, from January 2020 to June 2021, the government had stopped Dearness Allowance (DA). During this period, employees could not get DA arrears of 18 months. Now, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary has clarified that this arrears will not be paid. This information was given in the Rajya Sabha, where MPs raised questions on this issue.
The government cited the reason for this decision as there was financial pressure due to Covid-19 and hence DA/DR (Dearness Relief) had to be stopped. Earlier, various employee organizations had requested the government to release this arrears, but the government said it was impossible. This decision has proved disappointing for lakhs of central employees and pensioners.
In this article we will discuss the issue in detail, including the background of DA arrears, the government’s decision and its possible implications.
Overview of DA Arrears
| features | Information |
| name of the scheme | Dearness Allowance (DA) Arrears |
| effective date | January 2020 to June 2021 |
| reason to stop | Financial pressure during the Covid-19 pandemic |
| staff class | Central Government Employees and Pensioners |
| government decision | DA arrears of 18 months will not be received |
| position of finance ministry | No possibility of outstanding delivery |
| expectations | Demand for reconsideration by employee organizations |
| economic impact | Government saved Rs 34,402.32 crore |
Background of DA Arrears
The COVID-19 pandemic caused an economic crisis across all sectors. The Indian government took several measures during the crisis, including freezing dearness allowances to employees. Usually, the government increases dearness allowance every six months. But this time, from January 2020 to June 2021, this increase was stopped.
During this period, the government saved approximately Rs 34,402.32 crore for employees. This decision caused financial difficulties for many employees and they repeatedly demanded the government to release these arrears.
discussion in rajya sabha
Some MPs in the Rajya Sabha asked the Minister of State for Finance whether the government was considering releasing this outstanding amount. Minister Pankaj Chaudhary clearly said that it is not possible to do this considering the current economic situation. He said that reports have been received on this issue from many employee organizations, but it is not possible to take any concrete steps.
This situation is disappointing for those employees who were waiting for their due dearness allowance for a long time.
Finance Ministry’s decision
The Finance Ministry in its final reply said that distribution of 18 months DA/DR dues is not possible. Even before this, the ministry had refused on this issue several times. Now it has become clear that the government will not make any changes in this matter.
potential impact
This decision could have several possible effects:
- Financial Stress: Employees may face financial stress as they will not get their dues for the last 18 months.
- Response of organizations: Protests and agitations can be carried out by various employee organizations.
- Government Image: This decision may also impact the image of the government, especially when it comes to central employees.
conclusion
This is a difficult time for government employees. Non-receipt of DA arrears of 18 months has proved to be a big setback for them. Although the government has taken this keeping the economic situation in mind, it will have a negative impact on the financial condition of the employees.
Disclaimer
This article has been written for informational purposes only. Always get information on government schemes and decisions from official sources. Although this information appears to be correct, in reality plans and policies may change. Therefore, readers are advised to verify all facts before considering any plans or decisions.
