Timely DA, DR, and Bonus: Confederation Urges Action

The Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers has raised concerns over the delayed announcement of Dearness Allowance (DA), Dearness Relief (DR), and bonuses for central government employees and pensioners. In an official letter addressed to Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Confederation has requested swift action to resolve the matter before the festive season.

Delay in DA and DR Declaration Sparks Discontent

In the letter dated 30th September 2024, the Confederation pointed out that the installment of DA and DR, which is due from 1st July 2024, has yet to be declared. Traditionally, these announcements are made by the government in the last week of September, with three months of arrears being paid in the first week of October. However, this year, the delay has caused growing dissatisfaction among employees and pensioners alike.

Central government employees rely on the DA and DR to offset the impact of inflation, and the delay in the declaration has affected their financial planning. Pensioners, who are dependent on their pensions and the Dearness Relief to maintain their standard of living, are also facing difficulties. The Confederation’s Secretary General, S.B. Yadav, emphasized that the delay has created severe discontent among both employees and pensioners.

Festive Season Adds to the Urgency

Adding to the urgency is the upcoming festive season, with Durga Puja and Diwali around the corner. Many government employees look forward to receiving their Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) and Adhoc Bonus during this time, which allows them to meet additional expenses associated with the festivals. The Confederation has stressed the need for the timely announcement of these bonuses to ensure that employees can celebrate the festivals without financial strain.

Historically, the government declares the PLB and Adhoc Bonus in the lead-up to major festivals, providing a financial boost to millions of central government employees. Delays in this announcement can dampen the festive spirit for employees who depend on this additional income to support their families during the holiday season.

Confederation Calls for Finance Minister’s Intervention

In its appeal to Finance Minister Sitharaman, the Confederation requested her immediate intervention to ensure that the DA, DR, and bonus orders are issued without further delay. The letter urges the government to take swift action, keeping in mind the financial needs of the employees and the approaching festive season.

"The Confederation seeks your immediate intervention in the above matter and requests you to kindly cause the Declaration/Issuance of DA/DR orders and the Bonus orders, timely," the letter states.

S.B. Yadav, Secretary General of the Confederation, expressed hope that the government would act promptly to avoid further discontent among its employees and pensioners. He emphasized that the timely issuance of these orders would be a morale booster for the employees, especially during the festive season.

Conclusion: A Call for Swift Action

The Confederation's letter highlights the critical role that DA, DR, and bonuses play in the financial well-being of central government employees and pensioners. As inflation continues to impact the cost of living, the timely release of these allowances becomes even more essential.

With the festive season fast approaching, all eyes are now on the Ministry of Finance for a swift resolution to the matter. Government employees and pensioners across the country are eagerly awaiting the announcement, hoping that the government will prioritize their needs and release the DA, DR, and bonuses without further delay.

As the central government workforce awaits a response, the Confederation continues to advocate on their behalf, calling for timely action to ensure that employees receive their rightful dues before the festive season begins.

The copy of the letter is reproduced below

CONFEDERATION OF CENTRAL GOVT. EMPLOYEES & WORKERS
North Avenue New Delhi-110001

Ref: Confd. Bonus-DA-DR/2023 -24

Dated — 30.09.2024

To

Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman
Hon’ble Finance Minister
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
North Block, New Delhi – 110001

Sub: DECLARATION OF DA/DR, PLB AND ADHOC BONUS – REG.

Respected Madam,

I would like to draw your kind attention towards non declaration of the due installment of DA/ DR w.e.f. from 01-07-2024, normally it used to be declared in the last week of September and three months arrears paid in first week of October.

Severe discontent is there amongst employees and pensioners, over the delay in Announcement of the same.

Similarly, Durga Puja festival is approaching and the PLB and Adhoc Bonus too, are to be declared.

The Confederation seeks your immediate intervention in the above matter and request you to kindly cause the Declaration/Issuance of DA/ DR order’s and the Bonus order’s, timely.

With profound regards

Yours Sincerely
Sd/-
(S.B. Yadav)
Secretary General