The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) recently issued a notification to inform central government employees about revised allowances following a change in dearness allowance (DA) last month.
Here are the key points regarding the revised allowances:
1. **Dearness Allowance (DA)**: The DA for central government employees was increased by 4% to 50% last month, effective from January 1, 2024. Additionally, the Union Cabinet approved an extra dearness relief (DR) of 4%, raising the total DR to 50%.
2. **Child Education Allowance**: The allowance for children's education has been raised to 25% from the earlier 50%, with a fixed amount of Rs 6,750 per month for a maximum of two children. Children with disabilities are eligible for double the standard rate.
3. **Risk Allowance**: This allowance is provided to employees involved in hazardous duties. It's not counted as "pay" for any purpose to maintain clarity in the compensation structure.
4. **Night Duty Allowance (NDA)**: The NDA has been adjusted according to the revised norms of the 7th Pay Commission. Employees qualify for NDA if they work during the period from 10 pm to 6 am, with the hourly rate calculated based on Basic Pay and Dearness Allowance.
5. **Overtime Allowance**: Departments are required to maintain a register for 'Operational Staff' without increasing Overtime Allowance rates. Overtime can be monitored using biometric attendance systems.
6. **Special Allowance for Female Employees with Disabilities**: A special allowance of Rs 3000 per month is provided for female employees with disabilities who have young children, applicable until the child reaches two years of age.
7. **Special Allowance for Parliament Assistants**: Special allowances for those fully engaged in parliamentary duties during sessions have been increased by 50%. The rates for Assistants and UDCs have been raised to Rs 2,250 and Rs 1,800, respectively, with allowances granted at full rates for months with at least 15 days of Parliament sessions.
These revised allowances aim to provide better financial support to central government employees and ensure fairness and transparency in compensation structures.
