As discussions advance regarding the 8th Pay Commission, expectations among central government employees and pensioners are rising. With the implementation anticipated in January 2026, over 1.2 crore employees and pensioners are looking forward to a revision of salaries, improved benefits, and defined career paths.
The National Council Joint Consultative Machinery (NC JCM) Staff Side, which represents employees in negotiations with the government, has put forth its proposed Terms of Reference (ToR) for the forthcoming pay panel. The recent meeting with the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) addressed pressing issues such as Dearness Allowance (DA), Dearness Relief (DR), and career advancement.
15 Primary Employee Requests for the 8th Pay Commission
1. Thorough Review of Pay Structure
Employees are seeking a comprehensive evaluation of salaries, allowances, and pensions for various categories, including industrial and non-industrial staff, All India Services, Defence personnel, Para-military forces, and Gramin Dak Sevaks.
2. Updated Pay Scale Effective from 2026
A systematic salary update commencing from January 1, 2026, guaranteeing equitable compensation, is a significant demand from the upcoming pay panel.
3. Adjustment of Minimum Wage in Relation to Living Costs
The commission should establish minimum wage rates based on the 15th Indian Labour Conference (1957) benchmarks, revised to accommodate current living conditions, including an increase in family consumption units from 3 to 3.6.
4. Consolidation of Lower Pay Ranges
To alleviate wage gaps, employees advocate for the consolidation of non-viable pay grades, such as Level 1 with Level 2, Level 3 with Level 4, and Level 5 with Level 6.
5. Resolving MACP (Modified Assured Career Progression) Concerns
The MACP program must guarantee at least five promotions during an employee’s career while upholding a structured promotion hierarchy.
6. Temporary Financial Assistance for Employees and Pensioners
To offer monetary support prior to the full execution of the 8th Pay Commission, employees are seeking interim funding.
7. Combine Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) with Basic Salary
Integrating DA and DR with salaries and pensions will mitigate the effects of inflation and enhance financial security.
8. Addressing 7th Pay Commission Discrepancies
Outstanding issues from the 7th Pay Commission need resolution, particularly matters raised in JCM meetings and anomaly committees.
9. Improved Pension and Retirement Benefits
Employees are advocating for enhancements in pension regulations, including:
- Reinstating the commuted pension portion after 12 years
- Regular pension increases every 5 years
- Equal treatment for previous and current pensioners
10. Reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)
A vital demand is the revival of the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 (now 2021) for employees hired after January 1, 2004.
11. Improved Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Benefits
Employees desire cashless and seamless medical services as suggested by the Parliamentary Standing Committee.
12. Rise in Children’s Education Allowance (CEA)
The CEA and Hostel Subsidy should be broadened to include up to the postgraduate level to assist employees’ children's education.
13. Reinstating Interest-Free Loans
Employees are requesting the restoration of necessary interest-free loans, which were previously canceled.
14. Risk and Hardship Allowance for Railway Workers
Indian Railways workers operating in difficult circumstances should be granted a Risk and Hardship Allowance.
15. Special Allowance for Defence Civilian Staff
The request encompasses:
- Special Risk Allowance
- Insurance coverage
- Compensation for individuals handling hazardous materials, weaponry, and explosives
Concluding Remarks
The 8th Pay Commission’s commencement in 2026 is anticipated to provide significant financial and professional advantages for central government employees. Addressing these 15 primary requests will guarantee just compensation, career development, and enhanced social security for millions of employees and pensioners.
As discussions progress, employees are optimistic that the government will heed these recommendations and deliver the essential salary adjustments, pension reforms, and interim financial assistance.
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