Central government employees and pensioners across India are eagerly awaiting the rollout of the 8th Pay Commission. The Union Government has confirmed that the new commission’s recommendations will come into effect on January 1, 2026, while the 7th Pay Commission structure will continue until December 31, 2025.
DA Merger Still Uncertain
Employees have been pressing for the Dearness Allowance (DA) to be merged with their basic salary once it crosses 50 percent — a practice followed under earlier pay commissions. Several reports have speculated that this merger might happen soon, but the government has made it clear that no proposal is currently under consideration for merging DA with basic pay.
Fitment Factor May Be Set at 2.86
Experts believe that the fitment factor, which determines the increase in basic pay, could be set at 2.86 this time. This figure is used as a multiplier to calculate revised salaries under the new structure.
If implemented, a Level-1 employee with a current basic salary of ₹18,000 could see it rise to approximately ₹51,000 after applying the new fitment factor. However, this projection remains speculative until the official report of the 8th Pay Commission is released.
What to Expect Ahead
The 8th Pay Commission is expected to review pay scales, pensions, and allowances, taking into account rising inflation, cost of living, and economic growth. While expectations are high, any hike in basic salary or allowances will depend on the final recommendations and the government’s approval process in 2026.
For now, employees continue to await official clarity — but if current estimates hold true, a substantial pay hike could be on the horizon for millions of central government workers and pensioners.
