The Central Government has given major relief to the eligible health workers working in Railways and various Central Health Institutions. The government has approved a 25 percent increase in Hospital Patient Care Allowance (HPCA) and Patient Care Allowance (PCA).
This decision has been taken after the Dearness Allowance (DA) crossed the 50 percent mark. The revised rates will be considered effective from January 1, 2024, due to which the employees will get the full arrears of the past time along with the increased allowances.
The direct benefit of this decision will be given to eligible nursing staff, paramedical staff and other non-ministerial health workers working under the Central Government. Apart from this, eligible employees working in hospitals, central hospitals and divisional health units of Indian Railways will also be included in the scope of this increased allowance.
Know who will get increased allowance
The new rates of allowance have been decided on the basis of the pay matrix of the Seventh Pay Commission. Eligible employees from pay matrix level-1 to level-8 will now be given allowance of Rs 5,125 per month instead of Rs 4,100. At the same time, the allowance of eligible employees of pay matrix level-9 and above has been increased from Rs 5,300 to Rs 6,625 per month.
Since this amendment is considered to be applicable from January 1, 2024, the outstanding arrears of the increased amount will also be given in lump sum to the eligible employees.
These rules have to be kept in mind
There has been no change in other rules related to allowance. If an employee remains on leave or training continuously for more than one calendar month, this allowance will not be available for that period. Similarly, in case of unauthorized absence, the concerned employee will not be able to avail this facility.
Amid rising inflation, this increase in allowances is being considered as a financially relieving step for the employees associated with health services. The increased monthly amount and payment of arrears will enhance the income of thousands of eligible employees. Employees working in Railways and Central Government health institutions will now start getting the benefit of this allowance as per the revised rates.