The Union Cabinet today took decisions on 19 issues including three very significant issues on increase of DA by 8 percent to Central Government employees and capitation fee being made cognizable offense and amendment in Anti-Hijacking Bill, 1982 making a provision for death penalty both for conspirators and hijackers.<br/><br/>Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister, Mrs Ambika Soni said that the eight per cent DA hike for Central government employees will be applicable from January 1st this year. This would cost an additional 6,969. 36 Crore rupees to the exchequer.<br/><br/>The Cabinet also approved the estimated cost of National Population Register for 1.2 billion people of the country at a total cost of 3539.24 crore Rupees. The digital data base will include identity details including photographs and finger biometrics. The work will begin from first of April and will be completed by September this year.<br/><br/>In another significant decision, the Cabinet has made capitation fee in technical and medical institutions and universities, a cognizable offense.<br/><br/>In a very important decision, the Government also approved amendment in Section 3 and 4 of Anti-Hijacking Act, 1982. The amendment provides for death penalty for conspirators as well as hijackers.<br/><br/>Amongst other decisions, the Cabinet has also approved the revised cost estimates for six new AIIMS like institutions and upgradation of 13 Government Medical Colleges in the first phase of Pradhanmantri Swasth Suraksha Yojana. The total cost is 9307.62 crore rupees.<br/>