What is AICPI-IW and why does it matter for DA?

The All-India CPI for Industrial Workers tracks retail prices for workers. The government uses it to compute DA and DR for central staff and pensioners. AICPI-IW December 2025 was 148.2, unchanged, which supports a small step-up. Final DA depends on the official calculation and rounding.

When will the next Dearness Allowance hike be paid?

DA for the January 2026 cycle is typically paid with March salaries, along with arrears from January and February, after the order is issued. Exact timing and rate depend on the Finance Ministry notification and the implementation circular from the expenditure department.

How do I estimate my salary after a 2% DA hike?

Multiply your basic pay by 2 percent to get the monthly increase. Example, ₹18,000 adds ₹360, ₹56,100 adds ₹1,122. Add DA on eligible allowances like Transport Allowance if applicable. Use your payslip components, then confirm against the official DA rate on release.

Did Budget 2026 announce the 8th pay commission?

No. Union Budget 2026 did not announce the 8th pay commission, as reported by Hindustan Times. The 7th CPC framework continues with routine DA and DR revisions. Any change would need a separate Cabinet decision and a Gazette notification.

Law and Government

February 03: DA Hike Signals Build as AICPI-IW Holds; 8th Pay Panel Watch

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

India’s 8th pay commission talk is back in focus as AICPI-IW December 2025 stayed flat at 148.2. With the index steady, a Dearness Allowance hike for central government employees and pensioners looks likely for the January 2026 cycle, payable around March. Several estimates point to DA and DR moving toward the 60 to 63 percent band. The Union Budget 2026 did not announce the 8th pay commission, so policy watchers will track the official DA order and any follow-up government statements.