A big development now gives hope to millions of central government servants, with numerous news reports stating that the minimum basic pay could now be upgraded from Rs 18,000 to Rs 51,000. This major decision comes into contemplation while the discussions for the 8th Pay Commission, which is to come in force in the year 2026, and from as early as 2025, may actually enter the realm of policy.
What Is Causing This Surge In The Minimum Salary?
The least pay of Rs. 18,000 was first thought of during the 7th Pay Commission era, which came into being during July 2016. Recently, trade unions and federations of employees have openly stated their demands for a huge increase in the basic pay under the garb of inflation and high living costs. Among other bodies, the National Council of JCM (Joint Consultative Machinery) has disposed of divergent proposals to the Central Government, including increasing the fitment factor from 2.57 to 3.68 or above.
If the Government accepts the revised fitment, then the minimum pay would be raised initially to Rs 26,000 or so, with instances going variedly … and on an extreme level of adjustment, it could again be pushed as high as Rs 51,000 depending on grade pay and classification of service.
Will The Implementation Be Done Before 2026?
The decision to implement will presumably be taken in 2026. However, some might suspect that the Salary Review Committee or a temporary panel will be constituted in 2025 to assess the feasibility and initiate partial implementation of the recommendations. Financial benefits in the form of merger of Dearness Allowance (D.A.), declaration of bonus leave, and special relief measures might be extended earlier in order to lessen the burden, accordingly.
Who Will Benefit?
- Central Government employees
- Employees of autonomous bodies under the Central Government
- Pensioners who may also stand to receive an increase in their basic pension as per the new structure
Conclusion
While releasing no official confirmation on the matter, there have been media leaks and intermittent debates that allow employees to be optimistic about better salaries. In the near future, the government will very well be announcing the formation of the 8th Pay Commission and the fitment factor. Till then, central government employees and pensioners would be awaiting with bated breath for their long-held demands to be fulfilled in due course.
Also Read: 4% DA Hike Approved For June 2025: Govt Employees To Get New Salary Slips