Shimla, October 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced a 5 per cent increase in dearness allowance (DA) for state government employees and pensioners, providing financial relief ahead of Diwali.
The increase comprises a 4 per cent hike for the current year and an additional 1 per cent DA pending from the previous year. The decision is expected to benefit around 2.75 lakh government employees and pensioners across the state.
Sukhu also announced a one-time payment of Rs 10,000 for Class IV government employees towards pay revision arrears. The amount will be credited directly to their bank accounts on November 1.
Interacting with the media in Shimla, the Chief Minister said the formal notification regarding the DA hike would also be issued on November 1.
The announcement comes ahead of the festive season, when employees and pensioners typically face additional household expenses. The enhanced allowance is expected to provide some financial support amid rising living costs.
The decision covers both serving state government employees and pensioners, while Class IV employees will additionally receive the one-time payment towards their pending pay revision arrears.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Suresh Kashyap criticised the Congress-led state government, accusing it of attempting to take political credit for development projects being implemented under the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN).
Kashyap alleged that the state government was more focused on inauguration ceremonies, publicity and political credit than acknowledging the Centre’s contribution to aviation infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh.
Citing official figures presented in Parliament, he said Rs 213.52 crore had been allocated for aviation infrastructure in the state under the UDAN scheme up to June 2024, of which Rs 160.48 crore had been utilised.
Kashyap further stated that by February 2026, a cumulative 38 regional air routes had been operationalised, connecting four heliports under the scheme.
His remarks added a political dimension to the announcement, with the BJP leader questioning the state government’s claims regarding development initiatives supported by the Central government.
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