The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made it very easy for members to check their PF balance. Now, there is no need to use the internet or a computer. You can get details about your PF balance and latest deposits by giving a missed call from your registered mobile number or by sending an SMS. These services are easy to use and completely free. Let’s see how to use these facilities.
Constitution and Timeline of the 8th Pay Commission
Official announcement: The Union Government approved the 8th Pay Commission in January 2025.
Likely implementation: Usually, a new Pay Commission comes every ten years. The 7th Pay Commission recommendations started in 2016. The 8th Pay Commission is expected to take effect from January 1, 2026.
Current situation (May 2025): The Commission has been announced, but the Chairman and members are not yet appointed. The Terms of Reference (ToR) are also being finalized. The Finance Ministry is appointing staff for the Commission. More clarity is expected soon. The National Joint Consultative Committee (NC-JCM) is preparing a memorandum with demands like fitment factor, minimum pay, and others, likely ready by June 2025.
Key Expectations of Employees
Fitment Factor: This affects salary increases. In the 7th Pay Commission, it was 2.57. Employees are expecting it to be around 2.86 or more. Some unions want it up to 3.68. The government will decide the final number.
Minimum Salary Increase: With the new fitment factor, minimum salary will rise. This may increase total salary by 20% to 35%, helping employees in the current inflation.
Other Allowances: Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and other allowances may change. DA, currently 55%, may be merged with basic pay.
Pensioners’ Benefits: Pensioners’ payments are expected to increase with the new pay structure.
Pay Matrix Revision: Some simplification in pay scales and changes in the pay matrix are expected.
Government’s Vision and Next Steps
The 8th Pay Commission will prepare a detailed report after consulting employee unions, ministries, and experts. The report will then go to the government for review. Usually, the Commission takes 15–18 months to complete the report. The report may come by mid-2026, and recommendations may start in early 2027. Arrears will be given from January 1, 2026, once implemented.
This Pay Commission will improve the financial security and living standards of lakhs of central government employees and pensioners. More details will be shared in the coming days.