Great news has arrived for government employees and pensioners ahead of the festive season. The government has announced that employees will be granted an additional 20% Dearness Allowance (DA). Furthermore, the salary for October will be disbursed before Durga Puja to ensure employees do not face any financial hardship during the festivities. This benefit applies to employees in West Bengal.

**What was announced?**
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has made a major announcement for the state's government employees and pensioners. He stated that an additional 20% Dearness Allowance (DA) would be provided to employees starting October 1, 2026. Additionally, the October salary will be credited to employees' bank accounts before Durga Puja, allowing them to make festival preparations without financial stress.

**What did the Chief Minister say?**
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that his government is committed to providing relief to government employees. He explained that, in accordance with budget promises, the additional 20% DA hike will come into effect on October 1, raising the total Dearness Allowance from 18% to 38%. He also mentioned that the government wants employees to receive the benefit of this hike before Durga Puja; therefore, the October salary will be released ahead of schedule.

**Major update on the 7th Pay Commission**
Suvendu Adhikari informed that the state government has constituted the 7th Pay Commission. The commission has been tasked with preparing its recommendations. The government aims to move forward with decisions regarding employee salaries and allowances once the commission's report is received.

**Benefit for lakhs of employees and pensioners**
This government decision will benefit approximately 7.5 lakh state government employees, semi-government employees, teachers, non-teaching staff, and pensioners. The DA hike will increase their monthly income, while receiving their salary before the festival will provide added convenience for shopping and other expenses.

 Key Highlights
* Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced an additional 20% DA.
* The increased DA will come into effect from October 1, 2026.
* The total DA will rise from 18% to 38%.
* October salaries will be credited to employees' accounts before Durga Puja.
* The government also stated that work on the 7th Pay Commission would be expedited.

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