Divya Delhi:  The dearness allowance (DA) raise announcement before Diwali will provide Central government employees and retirees a double Diwali Damaka. DA is expected to rise 3% this time due to falling inflation. DA is 55% of base salary. This will rise to 58% if announced. Further excellent news for central government personnel and pensions. The increase will help nearly 1.2 crore workers and retirees before Diwali.The DA rise is normally announced twice a year, in February–March and September–October, effective January and July. The goal is to assist workers cope with inflation.National Confederation of Government Employees expects the commission to start on January 1, 2026. Central government personnel and pensioners will get new salaries and allowances.. Over 1 crore employees and pensioners will be affected by the 8th CPC's primary proposal in January 2026. The major proposal is to increase the 7th CPC fitment factor from 2.57 to 2.86. If approved, federal government employees' minimum wage could rise from Rs 18,000 to Rs 51,480 and pension from Rs 9,000 to Rs 25,740.