Central government employees and pensioners are closely watching developments around the8th Pay Commission, especially regarding implementation and arrears.
The government approved the Terms of Reference (ToR) in November 2025 and has given the panel 18 months to submit its report. While the chairperson and some members have already been appointed, the final implementation date has not yet been officially declared.
Although there is no formal date yet, past practice suggests that the revised pay structure could take effect fromJanuary 1, 2026, as the7th Pay Commissionterm ends on December 31, 2025.
In Parliament, Minister of State for FinancePankaj Chaudharyclarified that as per the Resolution notified on November 3, 2025, the Commission will submit its recommendations within 18 months from the date of constitution.
Even after submission of the report, implementation may take additional time. However, experts believe arrears are likely to be calculated from January 1, 2026, even if payments are disbursed later.
CA Manish Mishra, Founder of GenZCFO, explained that arrears will likely be computed from the date marking the end of the 7th Pay Commission, regardless of when approval and payments are processed.
Salary expectations are being shaped by previous commissions and current economic realities.
The 6th Pay Commission delivered roughly a 40% average hike.
The 7th Pay Commission had an overall impact of around 23–25%, with a fitment factor of 2.57.
Early projections for the 8th Pay Commission suggest:
A possible20–35% salary increase
A fitment factor in the range of2.4–3.0
However, experts caution that the final decision will depend on inflation trends, fiscal space after the 16th Finance Commission, tax revenues, and political considerations. The government is expected to balance a visible hike with calibrated adjustments in allowances and DA resets.
The official website of the 8th Pay Commission has been launched, and the panel has invited suggestions from ministries, departments, employees, pensioners, and stakeholders. The last date to submit responses is March 16, 2026.
This signals that the process has formally begun, but final recommendations will take time.
Amid rising curiosity, fraudsters are exploiting the situation.
Scammers are circulating WhatsApp messages offering a “preview” of revised salaries under the 8th Pay Commission. These messages include malicious APK files disguised as salary calculators.
Once installed, these apps can grant remote access to devices, enabling data theft and unauthorized bank transactions. Authorities have warned employees to avoid clicking unknown links or downloading files from unofficial sources.
The 8th Pay Commission impacts over one crore central government employees and pensioners. It affects salaries, pensions, allowances, and long-term financial planning.
While indications suggest arrears may be counted from January 1, 2026, the actual payout will depend on when the government formally approves and implements the recommendations.
Until then, employees are advised to rely only on official announcements and remain cautious of scams.
