7th Pay Commission: In a major benefit for central government employees, the central government has introduced significant changes to the Leave Travel Concession (LTC) scheme rules, offering a big relief to those looking to travel. Moreover, the new rules aim to boost domestic tourism and provide tax relief to individuals. Likewise, the Central government has expanded the LTC scheme to include trains like: Tejas, Vande Bharat, and Humsafar – allowing its employees to travel in comfort and style.

After numerous requests from various offices and individuals, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has issued an order allowing the use of these premium trains under the LTC scheme. “The matter has been examined by this department in consultation with the Department of Expenditure, and it has been decided that apart from existing Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Duronto trains, travel by Tejas Express, Vande Bharat Express & Humsafar Express trains under LTC as per the entitlement of the government employees has now been allowed,” read the DoPT order issued on Tuesday.

Currently, government employees get salaries based on the 7th Central Pay Commission, which includes LTC benefits as well. The LTC scheme reimburses employees for travel tickets to visit their hometown or other places in India, and also provides paid leave.

7th Pay Commission: What Else We Know?

The Centre in October 2024 announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for central government employees and pesioners, bringing the total DA to 53%. Typically, the government declares the DA hikes with two months in arrears.

Furthermore, the central government employees are eagerly awaiting the next Dearness Allowance (DA) revision, due this month. However, the government typically delays the official announcement until the first week of March, as it releases the AICPI-IW data that determines the DA hike later than expected.