2023 handbook summarySource checked 29 July 2026
Dearness Allowance for Army Officers
Dearness Allowance is sanctioned periodically and calculated on the pay elements recognised by the applicable order.
Overview
Dearness Allowance is sanctioned periodically and calculated on the pay elements recognised by the applicable order. The 2023 handbook says the Seventh CPC calculation base includes pay in the prescribed matrix level, Military Service Pay, and Non-Practicing Allowance where applicable. Its historical percentage table does not establish today's rate.
What the handbook says
The source describes DA as sanctioned twice yearly, payable from 1 January and 1 July. For the revised pay structure, its calculation base is pay in the prescribed matrix level plus Military Service Pay and Non-Practicing Allowance, if applicable; it excludes other pay such as special pay (2023 handbook, printed p. 130; PDF p. 141).
DA remains a separate element of remuneration rather than pay within the Defence Forces pay rules. During paid leave it follows the leave salary actually drawn, while leave without pay and allowances does not carry DA (2023 handbook, printed pp. 130-131; PDF pp. 141-142).
What this means
The percentage must come from the Government order covering the relevant effective date. The 2023 handbook explains the calculation base but cannot be used alone to state the present DA percentage.
Who this applies to
- DA applies to pay elements expressly included by the governing order.
- Special pay and other unlisted pay elements are outside the calculation base described by the source.
- Leave without pay and allowances does not carry DA under the source summary (2023 handbook, printed p. 130; PDF p. 141).
Rates and dates
The source's historical table runs from nil on 1 January 2016 to 42 percent on 1 January 2023. It identifies the rates from 1 January 2020 through 1 January 2021 as frozen or notional, with a retirement-benefit qualification (2023 handbook, printed p. 130; PDF p. 141). No rate is presented here as current.
What you may need
The cited source page does not state a separate claim-document checklist. Pay records must nevertheless identify the included pay elements and the effective DA order used for calculation.
Authorities and source references
- The cited source page does not identify a specific DA sanction number. Obtain the applicable Government order for the relevant 1 January or 1 July effective date.
Related guidance
About this guidance
This is a plain-language summary for general information. It is not an official order or an authority for a claim. Confirm the applicable order and your individual eligibility with the competent authority or PCDA(O) before acting.