Karnataka government increases dearness allowance for employees ahead of Lok Sabha elections. State Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raises DA from 38.75% to 42.5% of basic pay, benefiting pensioners as well. The hike, costing Rs 1,792.71 crore annually, is effective from January 1, 2024. Additional DA increase to 50% for UGC/AICTE/ICAR and NJPC pay scale employees. Last hike in October 2023.