Big Announcement for Punjab Employees and Pensioners, DA Hiked by 8%

September 30, 2026

The Punjab government has announced an 8 per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees and pensioners. The decision was announced after a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann with representatives of employee and pensioner organisations. Following the increase, the total DA for employees will rise to 50 per cent.

Higher DA Benefit to Reflect in October Salary

According to the Punjab government, the benefit of the increased DA will be reflected in the salary paid in October. The hike will be implemented in two instalments of 4 per cent each. The decision is expected to benefit around 8 lakh government employees and pensioners across the state. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said employees are an important part of the government and assured that efforts would continue to resolve their concerns through dialogue.

Old Pension Scheme and Other Issues Discussed

Apart from the DA hike, several pending issues concerning government employees were also discussed during the meeting. These included the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), salary during the probation period, and issues related to ASHA workers and Mid-Day Meal workers. According to the government, discussions on these matters will continue. Another meeting between the government and employee organisations has been proposed for the first week of October.

Posting Policy for Women Employees Also Discussed

The issue of postings for women government employees was also raised during the meeting. According to the Punjab government, emphasis will be placed on a policy under which women government employees can be posted within a 40-kilometre radius of their homes. The government said the move could help women employees better balance their professional responsibilities with family commitments.

Government Jobs Also Mentioned

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann also highlighted the government’s recruitment record during the meeting. He claimed that around 70,000 government jobs have been provided in Punjab so far during the government’s tenure. According to the Punjab government, merit and a transparent recruitment process have been given priority in these appointments. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the government and its employees need to work together for the development and progress of Punjab.