DA hike: In September 2026, the Labour Bureau reported a rise in retail inflation to 155.4. This surge has resulted in a Dearness Allowance (DA) adjustment to 65%. Looking ahead, the projections. Central government employees and pensioners may see Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) increase to 67% in January 2027, from the current 63%. The projected hike depends on inflation.