The central government has given an assurance to the central employees about the 8th Pay Commission. The government said that the commission will be formed soon, so that changes in salary and allowances can be made on time.
Employees expect that the 8th Pay Commission will increase their basic pay, allowances, and pension. There may also be changes in the Dearness Allowance (DA) structure with the new rules.
Experts say that if the commission is formed on time, its rules can start from 1 January 2026. This will benefit about 50 lakh central employees and more than 60 lakh pensioners.
What is the detail
The central government has said it is working on the 8th Pay Commission. According to a report by Financial Express, the government is in talks with state governments and an official announcement can come soon. Last month, a delegation of the Government Employees National Confederation (GENC), linked to the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), met Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh.
The 8th Pay Commission was announced in January this year. But since then, no big step has been taken. Employees are waiting for the appointment of panel members and final Terms of Reference (TOR). On 4 August, the delegation raised issues like delay in 8th Pay Commission, demand to end NPS and UPS, restore Old Pension Scheme (OPS), and release 18 months DA arrears stopped during COVID-19.
Other issues raised and government reply
Promotion time
Demand: Reduce the time needed for promotion.
Reply: Minister said this can be discussed after the 8th Pay Commission is formed.
Cashless treatment in CGHS and CS(MA) hospitals
Demand: Give cashless medical facility.
Reply: Minister said he will take this matter to the Health Ministry.
Regular JCM meetings
Demand: Meetings should happen on time.
Reply: Minister said orders are already issued and he will remind ministries to follow them.
Pay and leave for ex-servicemen (PBOR)
Demand: Equal pay rules and leave for all.
Reply: Minister said this is under active review.
Model recruitment rules
Demand: Same recruitment rules for all cadres like fire staff.
Reply: Minister said this will be looked at, DoPT had made such rules before also.
Half Pay Leave (HPL)
Demand: Allow 3 days commuted leave without medical certificate.
Reply: Minister said this is fair and will be sent to the concerned department for quick action.
