Shimla, Oct. 23 -- Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Friday announced a 5 per cent instalment of dearness allowance (DA) for state government employees, saying their contribution was crucial to the development of the state.

The Chief Minister also announced an additional payment of Rs 10,000 for Class IV employees, providing financial relief to government staff ahead of Diwali.

Speaking with ANI in Shimla, CM Sukhu said the government had taken the decision keeping in view the contribution of employees to the state's development, while maintaining fiscal discipline amid financial challenges.

"Today, I have announced a 5 per cent instalment of DA for government employees and an additional Rs 10,000 for Class...