8th Pay Commission Set to Benefit Government Workforce

The Cabinet has approved the Terms of Reference for the 8th Pay Commission, signaling potential relief for around 50 lakh central government employees and 69 lakh pensioners. The panel, chaired by former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, is expected to submit its final recommendations by mid-2026, significantly impacting salaries and pensions.

Comprised of a chairperson, one part-time member, and a member-secretary, the commission is tasked with providing its recommendations within 18 months from its formation. An interim report will also be submitted earlier to guide the government on when to implement the adjustments.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that while the specific implementation date for the pay adjustments will be determined after reviewing the interim report, the target is to begin on January 1, 2026. This follows the Cabinet's in-principle approval for the commission's establishment in January 2025.