Bengaluru, Thursday – Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara announced a raise in Dearness Allowance (DA) for all Karnataka state employees and pensioners, moving the rate from 15.75 per cent to 18 per cent with effect from 1 July 2026.
The order applies to staff drawing salaries under the 2024 Revised Pay Scales. Under the new formula, DA will be calculated as 18 per cent of basic pay, replacing the earlier 15.75 per cent. Retired government workers and family pensioners will receive the same uplift, in line with existing rules.
Parameshwara praised the workforce, calling them the backbone of administration and highlighting their role in delivering government programmes across the state. He also recognised retirees for decades of public service, stressing that rising living costs demand timely financial safeguards for both serving and former employees.
In a parallel move, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Parameshwara launched the first instalment of drought relief for farmers at Vidhana Soudha. Each farmer will receive an initial Rs 2,500, with a second instalment of the same amount slated for release within the next 15 days, bringing total assistance to Rs 5,000 per farmer.
The relief package is part of a broader Rs 1,260 crore input‑subsidy scheme. Funds will be transferred directly to eligible cultivators through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Shivakumar explained that the assistance translates to Rs 2,500 per acre for up to two acres, capping the benefit at Rs 5,000 per farmer.
While the chief minister cautioned that the amount alone will not transform agricultural livelihoods, he affirmed the government's commitment to stand with farmers during the current crisis, especially as Diwali approaches.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean News