New Delhi. In a major relief to eligible healthcare workers employed in the Railways and various central health institutions, the central government has approved a 25 percent increase in the Hospital Patient Care Allowance (HPCA) and Patient Care Allowance (PCA). This decision was taken after the dearness allowance (DA) increased by more than 50 percent. The revised rates will be effective from January 1, 2024, and employees will receive the increased allowance along with arrears for the past period.
Which employees will get the benefit
This decision will benefit eligible nursing staff, paramedical staff, and other non-ministerial health workers employed under the central government. Eligible employees working in Indian Railway hospitals, central hospitals, and divisional health units will also be covered by this increased allowance.
How much allowance will be given according to the new rates
New rates of allowances have been fixed on the basis of the pay matrix of the Seventh Pay Commission.
Eligible employees from Pay Matrix Level-1 to Level-8 will now get an allowance of Rs 5,125 per month instead of Rs 4,100.
The allowance of eligible employees in Pay Matrix Level-9 and above has been increased from Rs 5,300 to Rs 6,625 per month.
Since this amendment is considered effective from January 1, 2024, the arrears of the increased amount will also be given to the eligible employees in one lump sum.
The terms of allowance will remain the same as before.
No changes have been made to other rules related to allowances. If an employee is on leave or training for more than one calendar month, the allowance will not be payable for that period. Similarly, in the case of unauthorized absence, the concerned employee will not be able to avail of this benefit.
Employees will get financial relief
This increase in allowances, amid rising inflation, is being considered a financial relief for healthcare workers. The increased monthly amount and arrears will boost the income of thousands of eligible employees. Employees working in the Railways and central government healthcare institutions will now receive the benefits of allowances at the revised rates.