New Delhi – In a series of major decisions aimed at benefiting central government employees, farmers, and the education sector, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved multiple key proposals, including a 3% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR).
Announcing the decisions, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said the increase in DA and DR will benefit 49.2 lakh central government employees and 68.7 lakh pensioners. This hike follows the prescribed formula based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission.
57 New Kendriya Vidyalayas to Boost Education Access
In a significant move to expand access to quality education, the Cabinet also approved the establishment of 57 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) across India. The initiative, which will be implemented over nine years starting 2026-27, involves an estimated investment of ₹5,862.55 crore.
“These new schools will serve thousands of students and help bridge the educational gap in underserved regions,” Vaishnaw said.
Wheat MSP Hiked by 6.59% for 2026-27
In a farmer-centric decision, the Cabinet approved a 6.59% hike in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of wheat, raising it to ₹2,585 per quintal for the 2026–27 marketing year. Wheat, being the main rabi (winter) crop, is sown from late October and harvested from March onwards.
The MSP for six major rabi crops was also approved, based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The government aims for a record wheat production target of 119 million tonnes for the 2025–26 crop year, compared to an estimated 117.5 million tonnes in 2024–25.
Celebrating 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’
The Cabinet also gave a green signal to nationwide celebrations marking 150 years of the iconic patriotic song Vande Mataram, composed by Bankimchandra Chatterji. The song, which played a vital role in India’s freedom struggle, holds the status of the national song, alongside the national anthem Jana Gana Mana.
Vaishnaw noted, “Given its historical importance and emotional connect with the people of India, the Cabinet has decided to celebrate this milestone in a grand manner across the country.”
