Before the New Year, the Bihar government has been a source of joy and financial solace for state employees and pensioners. In an important decision, the state cabinet, under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has approved a raise in Dearness Allowance (DA) for employees under the 5th and 6th Pay Commission.
At the same time, new disciplinary and examination regulations for teachers have been established, marking a new advancement in good governance and educational reform.
Highlights of the DA Increase
The recent cabinet meeting, which discussed 43 key agendas, finalized the much-awaited DA revision for employees and pensioners. Here’s how the hike breaks down:
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For 5th Pay Scale Employees & Pensioners:
- DA increased from 243% to 255% (a 12% hike)
- Effective from July 1, 2024
- Arrears for July to November 2024 will be disbursed in January 2025
For 6th Pay Scale Employees & Pensioners:
- DA raised from 239% to 246% (a 7% increase)
- Also effective from July 1, 2024
- Arrears will be paid along with January 2025 salaries
This move is set to benefit thousands of employees and retirees, helping them cope with rising inflation and improving their financial stability.
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Teachers have Hard Reforms
In the interest of improving educational quality, the Government of Bihar has framed reforms and guidelines for teachers.
- The Many Attempts of Competency Tests Were Increased:
- Teachers can attempt the competency test a total of five times, up from three attempts originally.
- This affects 85,609 teachers in service across the state.
Strict Disciplinary Action
Discipline of teachers remains at the discretion of District Education Officers (DEOs) who, in such cases, can transfer them at block levels.
Transfers may also be recommended to other districts, but such orders may be challenged by the teachers.
This policy change is aimed at ensuring the accountability of teachers and creating a more disciplined work environment that will finally benefit the students.
Previously DA Hike Under 7th Pay Commission
The State Government had also approved an increase of Dearness Allowance for employees under the 7th Pay Commission in November 2024:
- An increase of DA from 50% to 53%
- Arrears payable in January 2025 from July to December 2024
Importance of This DA Hike
The increase in Dearness Allowance is not merely a salary increase; it is like a lifeline thrown to employees and pensioners to fight against rising living costs. Because of this enhancement;
- The monthly salaries and pensions will increase.
- A one-time lump-sum amount paid as arrears will provide instant assistance.
- Purchasing power increases family-wise into the domain of paying expenditures in a better way.