Variable DA hiked for scheduled central govt employees

The move is expected to benefit around 1.5 crore workers in the central sphere and engaged in various scheduled employment including roads, railways, and those working in mines and other construction activities. The revision, however, varies from Rs 156 to Rs 286 unskilled, semi skilled and skilled workers.

“In a major relief to different category of workers engaged in various scheduled employments in the central sphere, at a time when the country is struggling with COVID-19 pandemic, the ministry of labour and employment has notified and revised the rate of variable dearness allowance (VDA) with effect from October 1, 2021,” the ministry said in a statement.

The VDA is revised on the basis of average consumer price index for industrial workers (CPI-IW). The average CPI-IW for the months of January to June, 2021 was used for undertaking the latest variable dearness allowance (VDA) revision.

“This will benefit around 1.5 crore workers engaged in various scheduled employment in the central sphere across the country and is in line with Prime Minister’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas,” labour and employment minister Bhupender Yadav said.

The rates fixed for scheduled employment in the central sphere are applicable to the establishments under the authority of the central government, railway administration, mines, oil fields, major ports or any corporation established by the central government. These rates are equally applicable to contract and casual employees and workers.

The enforcement of Minimum Wages Act in the central sphere is ensured through the inspecting officers across the country for employees and workers engaged in the scheduled employment in the central sphere.