This Navratri has brought festive cheers to millions of running staff in Indian Railways, including Loco Pilots, Assistant Loco Pilots, and Guards. Following the 50% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA), the Ministry of Railways has now given in-principle approval to a 25% increase in their Kilometer-Run Allowance (KMA). Shiv Gopal Mishra, General Secretary of AIRF, confirmed the news, hailing it as a historic victory for the workers.

The decision comes after successful negotiations between Railway Unions and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Unlike desk staff, running staff receive KMA based on the distance they travel. As per railway norms, when DA crosses the 50% threshold, certain allowances automatically witness a 25% revision.

Under the new structure, Loco Pilots of Mail/Express trains will now receive ₹662.50 per 100 km, up from ₹530. Passenger train pilots will see their rates jump to ₹656.25, while Goods train pilots will get ₹650. Assistant Loco Pilots and Guards have also received proportional hikes. The total impact on monthly take-home pay will depend on the actual kilometers clocked by each staff member, potentially adding thousands to their monthly earnings.