Govt Mulls Dearness Allowance for Public Servants: Dr Salehuddin

Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said today that the government is actively considering the introduction of a dearness allowance for public servants in the upcoming national budget for FY26. However, he declined to disclose the potential percentage of the allowance, noting that the matter is still under review.

Speaking to reporters after chairing meetings of the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase, Dr. Salehuddin stated that a committee has been assigned to examine the issue and will provide feedback once the details are worked out. “The possibility is there, but it will take time to determine to what extent it can be incorporated into the budget,” he added.

He urged the public not to be confused about the matter, assuring that the government is giving it due consideration.

On a separate issue, Dr. Salehuddin commented on India’s recent import restrictions on certain Bangladeshi products, saying that the Ministry of Commerce would engage in discussions regarding the development. The restrictions, which took immediate effect, were announced through a notification from India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade.

Regarding concerns from revenue board officials following the government's decision to split the National Board of Revenue (NBR) into two divisions through an ordinance, the Finance Adviser said there was no new statement to be made, though the government may issue a press note in due course.