April 4, 2025: In a major relief to government employees and pensioners, the Assam government has announced an enhancement in the Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) rates from 53% to 55%. The decision, approved by the state cabinet, will benefit over 7.38 lakh employees and pensioners across Assam. 

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to share the update, calling it “Bihu cheer for our employees and pensioners.” He further stated that Assam has become one of the first states in the country to implement the revised DA/DR rate in April itself.

The Finance Department’s official memorandum confirms that the new rates are effective from January 1, 2025, under the revised pay scale as per the Assam Services (ROP) Rules, 2017. The enhanced 55% DA/DR will be paid along with monthly salaries and pensions starting April 2025.

Additionally, the arrears for the period from January 1, 2025, to February 28, 2025, will be disbursed in two equal installments—the first in May 2025 and the second in June 2025 through bank accounts of employees and pensioners.

The move is expected to bring financial relief to thousands of state employees and pensioners, recognizing their contributions to Assam’s development. The government has also directed treasuries, sub-treasuries, and authorized public sector banks to ensure timely payment of the enhanced DA/DR.

This decision underscores the state government's commitment to supporting its workforce and retirees, particularly at a time when inflation continues to impact daily expenses.