Festivals often bring joy, but this year Diwali and Chhath have come with an extra reason for thousands of Bihar state employees and pensioners to celebrate. The Bihar government has just announced a hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) from 55% to 58%, a move that will directly ease the financial pressure on households struggling with rising prices.
If you’re a government employee or pensioner in Bihar, this is not just a number—it’s a real increase in your monthly take-home income. Let’s break down what this decision means, why it’s significant, and what else was approved in the state cabinet meeting.
What Exactly Changed in Dearness Allowance?
Dearness Allowance is an essential component of government salaries and pensions. It’s meant to offset the impact of inflation and rising costs of living.
Until now, Bihar employees and pensioners were receiving 55% DA. With this decision, the state government has raised it to 58%, in line with the Central Government’s recent move.
👉 Why this matters: Even a 3% hike may sound small, but for employees and pensioners, it means extra cash every single month—especially important during festival season when household expenses shoot up.
Why Was This Announced Before Festivals?
The timing of this decision is no coincidence. Diwali and Chhath are the most celebrated festivals in Bihar, and families spend a large portion of their income on food, clothing, gifts, and travel.
By announcing the DA hike now, the government is sending a clear signal: we understand your needs during festivals.
At the same time, with state elections around the corner, this decision also carries political weight. It strengthens the government’s image as employee-friendly and responsive to people’s concerns.
Other Key Decisions from the State Cabinet
The DA hike wasn’t the only highlight. The cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, cleared 129 agenda items in its meeting. Here are the most notable ones:
1. Honorarium Increase for Health Workers
- All contract workers under the National Health Mission (NHM) will now receive a 10% hike in honorarium.
- This step acknowledges the critical role of frontline health staff who have been the backbone of public health services.
2. Support for Graduates under Self-Help Scheme
- Under the “Chief Minister’s Self-Help Allowance Scheme” (part of the Saat Nischay program), beneficiaries with graduate degrees in Arts, Science, and Commerce will now also be included.
- This widens opportunities for educated youth who are still unemployed.
3. Restructuring of Secretariat Services
- The Bihar Secretariat Stenographer Service has been reorganized.
- A new post, Senior Principal Private Secretary, has been created to streamline administrative work.
4. Preparations for State Elections
- Administrative approval of ₹9.15 crore has been given for a Control Command Center in the Chief Electoral Officer’s office.
- Around ₹122 crore will be allocated through the Bihar Contingency Fund in FY 2025–26 for voter awareness programs, BLO kits, and allowances of election officers.
What Does This Mean for Common People?
Think of it this way:
- Employees & Pensioners → More money in hand during a high-expense season.
- Health Workers → Recognition of their hard work through a pay hike.
- Graduates → Better chances to access state support under skill and allowance schemes.
- Voters → A smoother and more transparent election process thanks to new funds and technology.
For the average family in Bihar, this translates into a little more breathing space at a time when inflation has made everyday goods costlier.
Final Thoughts
The Bihar government’s decision to increase DA to 58% is more than a policy update—it’s a festive relief package for thousands of families. While the move aligns with central policy, its timing makes it feel like a personal gift ahead of Diwali and Chhath.
Alongside, the other cabinet approvals—from higher pay for health workers to election funding—show that the state is trying to balance both development and welfare.
The big question now is: Will these steps be enough to win public trust as elections approach? That’s something only time will tell. But for now, families can enjoy their festivals with a little less financial stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the new Dearness Allowance rate for Bihar state employees?
The Bihar government has increased DA from 55% to 58% for all state employees and pensioners, effective ahead of the festival season.
2. Will this DA hike affect pensioners as well?
Yes, pensioners will also benefit from the 3% increase. This ensures that retired employees receive the same financial relief as current staff.
3. Apart from the DA hike, what other benefits were announced?
The cabinet approved a 10% honorarium hike for NHM contract workers, expanded the Self-Help Allowance Scheme for graduates, and allocated funds for election preparations and voter awareness programs.