If you’re a central government employee or pensioner, you’ve probably been holding your breath for years now—waiting, hoping, maybe even praying—for the 18 months of Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) that were stopped during COVID-19. And honestly? It’s been exhausting.
You’re not alone. Over 1.2 crore employees have been riding the same emotional rollercoaster, wondering if the money they rightfully earned will ever make its way back into their hands.
So, what’s the latest update? Is there finally a light at the end of this long, dark tunnel?
What Exactly Happened to the DA Arrears?
During the peak of the pandemic—from March 2020 to June 2021—the government paused the DA/DR payouts. The country was battling an economic crisis, and this was one of many difficult decisions made.
But here’s the thing: you kept working.
Even when the world shut down, you showed up—for your duties, for the people, for the system. You didn’t ask for much. Just what was already promised.
And yet, those 18 months of arrears never came.
The Latest Meeting: Hope, Frustration, and a Whole Lot of Questions
Just recently, at the 63rd meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Council (JCM), held at CSOI in Delhi, the issue was raised again—loud and clear.
Central employees and pensioners made one thing very clear:
“We did our part. Now it’s time for the government to do theirs.”
The employee representatives asked for nothing more than the money they had already earned. No bonuses. No extras. Just what’s fair.
Here’s what was discussed:
Main Demands Raised:
- Release of the 18-month DA/DR arrears
- Formation of the 8th Pay Commission
- Introduction of a new insurance scheme for employees
But what was the government’s response?
What the Government Said—And Didn’t Say
Unfortunately, the Finance Ministry stuck to its old stand.
They acknowledged the financial pressure due to welfare schemes and the pandemic. But once again, they didn’t commit to releasing the withheld DA/DR.
And that hurt.
Because it wasn’t just about money—it was about recognition, respect, and justice for the hard work employees continued to do during one of the toughest periods in history.
8th Pay Commission Update 2025
There was some movement on the 8th Pay Commission front.
The government confirmed that they’ve started appointing members and issuing notifications. If all goes as hoped, the new pay scale could be implemented by January 1, 2026.
And if there’s a delay? Employees may receive arrears then too.
But that’s a long way off. And for many, the DA arrears from 2020–2021 still feel like unfinished business.
A New Insurance Plan May Be on the Way
One positive takeaway from the meeting?
The Department of Expenditure has drafted a proposal for a new insurance scheme for central employees. It hasn’t been released yet, but it’s expected to offer improved benefits and more financial protection.
Let’s hope this plan doesn’t meet the same fate as the DA arrears—all talk and no action.
Employees Speak from the Heart
Pensioners and employees are growing restless—but not hopeless.
Many believe a humanitarian approach is still possible. They’re not demanding anything extra. Just what they earned with integrity during one of the hardest times of their careers.
“We gave our best when the country needed us. Now, we just want what’s fair.”
That’s not anger talking. That’s heartbreak, wrapped in quiet dignity.
Quick Recap: Where Things Stand
| Issue | Current Status |
|---|---|
| 18 Months’ DA/DR Arrears | No assurance yet |
| 8th Pay Commission | In progress |
| New Insurance Scheme | Proposal drafted |
| Employee Sentiment | Hopeful but tired |
FAQs: DA Arrears & Government Updates
Q1: When will the 18-month DA arrears be paid?
As of now, there’s no official commitment from the government, despite continued demands from employees and pensioners.
Q2: What was the government’s reason for stopping DA/DR payments?
They cited financial stress during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing budget pressures.
Q3: Has the 8th Pay Commission been officially announced?
Yes, the initial appointments and notifications have started. Full implementation is expected by January 1, 2026.
Q4: Will employees get arrears if the 8th Pay Commission is delayed?
There’s a possibility. Historically, delayed pay commissions often include arrears upon rollout.
Q5: What’s this new insurance scheme about?
A fresh insurance plan for central government employees is being developed. Details will be shared soon with employee representatives.
Q6: Can the government still release the 18-month DA arrears?
Yes, if the government takes a compassionate approach, there’s still room to resolve this fairly.