Is the government planning to issue a separate notification for 7th Pay Commission HRA?

The government recently announced a 50% hike in dearness allowance (DA) for government employees, effective from January 1, 2024. However, there is confusion surrounding the 7th Pay Commission HRA as no separate notification has been issued regarding any revision of the house rent allowance (HRA).

As per the rules under the 7th Pay Commission, HRA rates are to be revised by 30%, 20%, and 10% depending on the city categories X, Y, and Z respectively. The lack of a separate notification from the government has raised questions about whether one is expected to be released or if it is necessary.

According to a statement quoted by the Economic Times, there may not be a requirement for another government notification for the revision of HRA, as it can be implemented directly. Employees are advised to check their individual salary slips to confirm if the revised HRA has been paid by the government.

The recent increase in DA and dearness relief for pensioners by 4% in March benefitted around 49.18 lakh employees and 67.95 lakh pensioners. This hike, moving the amount from 46% to 50%, will cost the government Rs. 12,868.72 crore per year.