Centre Signals No Delay: 8th Pay Commission Panel Being Formed
New Delhi, 9 September 2025 — In a key development for more than one crore of central government employees and pensioners, the Centre has confirmed that it is proceeding with consultations with state governments on the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). This indicates the possibility of the announcement of the committee sooner than later.
On 4 August 2025, a delegation from the Government Employees National Confederation (GENC)— the apex body associated with the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS)— met with the Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh. In the meeting, many long-standing issues were discussed, including delays in setting up the 8th CPC, pension issues, issues around restoring the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
Minister Jitendra Singh Promises Early Constitution of Pay Commission
Minister Jitendra Singh promised the delegation that the pay commission panel would be set up soon and immediately fixed a follow-up meeting with the Pension Secretary in relation to the restoration of OPS.
Key Demands Raised by Government Employees’ Delegation
• Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (OPS), replace NPS and UPS.
• Release of DA arrears that are frozen from the time of COVID-19.
• Increasing the compassionate appointment quota from 5 percent onwards.
• Quickening promotions with shorter residency for both salaries.
• Setting model recruitment rules for common cadres including firefighting staff.
• Allowing for the conversion of up to 3 days of Half Pay Leave (HPL) (without a medical certificate) to commuted leave.
While some demands (e.g. DA arrears) were withdrawn, the minister promised other demands will be addressed either immediately or at least with the establishment of the 8th CPC.
Consultation Phase and Next Steps for 8th CPC
The pay commission, established by the Union Cabinet earlier this year, is still waiting formal notification and terms of reference (ToR) and members of the panel. Inputs have been sought from key stakeholders (Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Personnel & Training – as well as state governments) as per assurances provided in Parliament.
When Will the 8th Pay Commission Be Implemented?
Consultations ongoing and a clearer road map now emerging, it is likely an announcement regarding the constitution of the 8th CPC is imminent. Once formally notified, the commission will commence reviewing salaries, pensions, allowances, and service conditions. Experts suggest that even once the commission is complete, some time may pass before full implementation- given the complexity and bureaucratic timelines – perhaps it will extend into 2026 or 2028.
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This developing story brings some hope of much-needed on reforms & relief for central government employees and pensioners as the government is signalling movement to resolve many of the outstanding issues that exist. Emerson through finalising panel details and ToR.
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