DA Hike News: Announcement of ₹18,000 salary and DA—who has the government granted the right to 'equal pay for equal work'?

DA Hike 2026: Lakhs of central government employees and pensioners across the country are eagerly awaiting an increase in their Dearness Allowance (DA/DR). It is anticipated that the government may provide a 'Diwali gift' to its employees during the cabinet meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 28. Meanwhile, the Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) has already given a significant gift to over 4,000 of its employees ahead of Diwali.

During an event, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced a major decision: in line with the principle of "equal pay for equal work," the minimum monthly salary for approximately 4,000 Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) employees has been increased to ₹18,000. Additionally, they will also receive a Dearness Allowance (DA).

According to a report by the news agency PTI, this salary revision will impose a financial burden of ₹52 crore on the public exchequer.

Background of the Employees
These employees were initially appointed as Domestic Breeding Checkers (DBC) and were later re-designated as Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) within the Public Health department. MCD Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar stated that these employees have spent years conducting vital public health-related work through door-to-door visits.

Under the new arrangement, their salary has been set at Level-1 of the pay matrix—₹18,000—which includes a variable Dearness Allowance (DA). Expressing her satisfaction, Mayor Pravesh Wahi noted that the increased salaries have already been transferred directly into the employees' bank accounts.

She explained that the proposal to increase salaries and the DA was announced in the previous budget and had been submitted to the Chief Minister for approval.

What did CM Rekha Gupta say?
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that this move serves as a genuine recognition of the contributions made by employees who have worked with dedication in the public health sector for decades. She remarked, "It is the duty of our government to look after the thousands of employees who serve Delhi and to ensure their well-being." 

Recruitment of 2,500 New Sanitation Workers
Along with this initiative focused on the welfare of its staff, the MCD has geared up to improve the city's sanitation system. In anticipation of large crowds in markets and public spaces during the festive season and Diwali, the Mayor has announced the recruitment of 2,500 new sanitation workers.

The Chief Minister has issued a stern warning that any negligence regarding cleanliness will not be tolerated, and has directed officials to ensure that improvements are clearly visible on the ground.