More than 1 crore central government employees and pensioners are eagerly awaiting the formation of the 8th Pay Commission and the subsequent salary revision. Traditionally, a new pay commission is set up every 10 years. With the 7th Pay Commission completing its 10-year term in January 2026, expectations are high for the announcement of the 8th Pay Commission soon.
8th Pay Commission: When Will It Be Formed?
The central government typically establishes a new pay commission every decade. The 7th Pay Commission was constituted in 2014, and its recommendations were implemented in January 2016. The term of this commission will end on January 1, 2026. Central government employees are pushing for the swift formation of the 8th Pay Commission so that its recommendations can be implemented by January 2026, given the lengthy process involved in preparing and submitting recommendations.
Formation Timeline and Government Stance
Despite mounting pressure from employees, the government has so far refrained from confirming the formation of the 8th Pay Commission. According to reports, the 8th Pay Commission is expected to be constituted in 2025. This timeline comes as government officials have downplayed the urgency, suggesting it is premature to initiate the commission’s formation now.
Employee Unions Push for Pay Commission
According to some media reports, a senior member of the employees’ union revealed that representatives of several central government employees recently met with the Cabinet Secretary to discuss the 8th Pay Commission. During this meeting, the union members demanded the formation of a new pay commission. The Cabinet Secretary reportedly responded that 2026 is still far off, and it would be too early to establish the commission at this point. However, he indicated that the 8th Pay Commission is likely to be formed next year, possibly in 2025.
How much will the salary increase in the 8th Pay Commission?
Although the salary of the central government employees was increased by about 23 per cent in the current 7th Pay Commission, it was increased much more in the previous 6th Pay Commission. However, according to reports, after the 8th Pay Commission, the minimum salary can increase to about Rs 34,500 compared to the current Rs 18,000.
8th Pay Commission: DA Hike Formula Set for Change
Currently, central employees receive DA hikes based on the 7th Pay Commission’s formula. However, this formula may soon see changes, as the Economic Survey 2024 suggested excluding the food inflation rate from India’s inflation framework. According to News18, an employee union member stated that the 8th Pay Commission will likely revise the formula for DA hikes.