8th Pay Commission: If you’re working for the central government, a pensioner, or getting ready for a government job, mark February 12, 2026, on your calendar. This date could bring a showdown between the central government and employee unions. The biggest union of central employees has called for a one-day national strike, and it’s not just about pay. The concerns include the 8th Pay Commission terms, merging DA with basic pay, pensions, OPS, bonuses, gratuity, and the overall employee policy from the government.
For central government employees, this isn’t merely news; it’s a crucial update about your salary, pension, and future working conditions. This strike isn’t a spontaneous event; it’s the culmination of ongoing frustration regarding the 8th Pay Commission.
The unions claim that the government
The Pay Commission isn’t taking employee input seriously when setting the terms and conditions. It’s delaying discussions on issues like DA, pensions, and OPS. Plus, the salary structure isn’t keeping up with inflation.
So, why the strike on February 12th? What’s the connection to the 8th Pay Commission? Clear statement from the General Secretary, Confederation General Secretary S.B. Yadav wrote in clear words in the notice: “The government is ignoring the real problems of employees and pensioners in finalizing the terms of the 8th Pay Commission. Delaying decisions on fundamental issues like DA, pensions, OPS, and bonuses is unfair to employees. If the government doesn’t take concrete steps in time, employees will be forced to protest.” This isn’t just a warning, but a declaration of direct confrontation.
What are the key demands from employees?
Change the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the 8th Pay Commission, merge 50% DA into Basic + Interim Relief, tackle the OPS vs NPS debate: the biggest controversy, address 18 months of DA during the Covid period, and discuss Bonus, PF, and Gratuity.
The Confederation is asking for:
Removal of all limits on bonuses, elimination of ceilings on PF eligibility and payments, and an increase in the maximum gratuity amount.
What does this mean for you?
If you work for the central government: It directly affects your DA, IR, and OPS.
If you’re a pensioner: Pension parity, DA arrears, and OPS are the main concerns.
For youth looking for jobs: There will be more pressure to fill open positions.
What might happen next?
The government could choose to engage in dialogue.
There might be some changes hinted at in the terms of the 8th CPC.
We could see employee-friendly announcements in the Budget 2026.
Don’t forget the 8th pay commission strike on February 12 regarding DA, pension, and OPS demands.