In a major relief for over 1 crore central government employees and pensioners, the Centre has confirmed that it is actively consulting state governments on the 8th Pay Commission matter, and an announcement regarding the constitution of the panel is expected soon.
A delegation from the Government Employees National Confederation (GENC), affiliated with the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), met Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions Jitendra Singh last month. The discussion focused on various pressing issues, notably the long-pending delay in the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission.
No Progress Since January Announcement
Although the 8th Pay Commission was announced in January 2025, there has been little progress since. Employees are now eagerly awaiting the appointment of key panel members and the finalization of the Terms of Reference (ToR).
During the meeting held on August 4, 2025, the delegation submitted a detailed memorandum highlighting demands such as:
- Scrapping of the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) in favor of restoring the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
- Release of DA arrears (18 months) frozen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Enhancement of compassionate appointment quotas.
- Cadre reviews and regular JCM meetings.
Minister’s Key Assurances
Union Minister Jitendra Singh assured the confederation that the 8th Pay Commission will be constituted soon. He immediately facilitated a follow-up meeting between GENC and the Pension Secretary to discuss the restoration of OPS, which was successfully held on August 5, 2025.
Other important responses included:
- The compassionate appointment quota will remain at the existing 5% ceiling, as per legal rulings.
- Commuted pension restoration timelines will continue as clarified earlier by the Department of Pension.
- Career progression issues, such as reducing residency period for promotions, will be addressed by the 8th CPC once formed.
Moving Forward
Despite mounting pressure from professional bodies and employee federations, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has not yet officially extended the deadline for implementation. However, the government’s proactive approach in consulting states and arranging high-level meetings signals positive movement toward resolving these critical demands.
The establishment of the 8th Pay Commission is expected to bring relief and set a new direction in the career and pension frameworks of central government employees and pensioners across India.
