Central Government employees must note that in 2026, Overtime Allowance (OTA) is strictly categorized. While “Operational Staff” continue to receive OTA linked to their current Basic Pay, general “Office Staff” are governed by rates frozen in 1991, effectively making OTA obsolete for them.
Updated on: 16 January 2026 | Verified against DoPT OM No. A-27016/03/2017-Estt.(AL).
Overtime Allowance (OTA) Rules 2026: Operational Staff List & Rates
Quick Answer
• Office Staff: OTA is discontinued (or paid at nominal 1991 rates like ₹15/hour).
• Operational Staff: OTA is paid based on Current Basic Pay + DA.
• Who are Operational? Drivers, Electricians, Mechanics, Railway Running Staff, and Caretakers.
Risk: Biometric Mandatory
Even for eligible Operational Staff, OTA claims in 2026 will be REJECTED if:
1. Extra hours are not captured in the Aadhaar Based Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS).
2. The “Overtime” was not authorized by the Supervisor in writing beforehand.
Operational Staff Definition
The DoPT defines Operational Staff as those “directly involved in the smooth operation of the office or machinery.”
| Category | Eligible for OTA? | Rate Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Secretariat / Clerical Staff | ❌ NO (Effectively) | Frozen 1991 Rates |
| Staff Car Drivers | ✅ YES | Current Pay + DA |
| Railway Running Staff | ✅ YES | Mileage + Hourly Rates |
| Technical / Industrial Staff | ✅ YES | Statutory Rules (Factories Act) |
Calculation Formula (Operational Staff)
For eligible employees (like Railways/Defence), the calculation is linked to the 7th CPC Pay Matrix.
- Single Rate: (Basic Pay + DA) ÷ 200 per hour.
- Double Rate: (Basic Pay + DA) ÷ 100 per hour (for holidays/night).
- Note: Exact divisor (200 or 240) depends on statutory weekly hours (48 or 44).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I getting only ₹15 for Overtime?
If you work in a Ministry/Attached Office as an Assistant/UDC, your OTA rates were not revised by the 7th Pay Commission. They are legally frozen at 1991 levels to discourage overtime culture.
Is there a monthly ceiling on OTA?
Yes. For Personal Staff and Drivers, the OTA usually cannot exceed 50% of their monthly Basic Pay. Any claim beyond this requires Special Secretary approval.
🇮🇳 हिंदी में सारांश (Summary in Hindi)
ओवरटाइम भत्ता (OTA) 2026
1. ऑफिस स्टाफ: क्लर्क, असिस्टेंट आदि के लिए ओवरटाइम बंद के बराबर है (पुराने 1991 के रेट ₹15/घंटा मिलते हैं)।
2. ऑपरेशनल स्टाफ: ड्राइवर, रेलवे स्टाफ और मैकेनिक्स को नये वेतन (Basic + DA) के आधार पर ओवरटाइम मिलता है।
3. शर्त: बायोमेट्रिक हाजिरी (Biometric) में एक्स्ट्रा टाइम दिखना अनिवार्य है, वरना पैसा नहीं मिलेगा।
