Hopes for the 8th Pay Commission have dimmed once again. The Minister of State for Finance has clarified that there is no confirmation that the commission will be implemented from 1 January 2026, leaving nearly 50 lakh central government employees disappointed. The commission will submit its report within 18 months.
Central government employees who have been eagerly waiting for the 8th Pay Commission may face a setback. Many believed it would automatically come into effect from 1 January 2026, but the government’s statement in Parliament has shocked employees.
When will the 8th Pay Commission be implemented?
Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary responded to all questions on the 8th Pay Commission in a written reply. He stated that there is no decision yet on whether the commission will be implemented from 1 January 2026.
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This reply has disappointed more than 50 lakh central employees across India. For the past few days, social media was filled with claims that the new pay commission would begin in 2026. But the government has made it clear that nothing has been finalised yet. The minister also said that the commission will take 18 months to submit its report, and only after that will any decision be taken.
How many employees will benefit from the 8th Pay Commission?
During the Parliamentary discussion, the minister shared that the number of central government employees currently stands at 50.14 lakh, and there are 69 lakh pensioners. All of them would benefit once the 8th Pay Commission comes into effect.
He also mentioned that the required funds to implement the recommendations will be decided at the appropriate time.
Recently, the Centre has approved the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the 8th Pay Commission. The commission will now prepare its recommendations on basic pay structure, pensions, allowances, and other benefits. It will also revise the fitment factor, which could result in a salary increase for employees.
