8th Pay Commission latest news: Government may soon release Terms of Reference (TOR), paving the way for revised salaries and allowances. Big update for 50 lakh employees and 65 lakh pensioners.
Long-Awaited Pay Boost May Soon Begin Taking Shape
The expectations around the 8th Pay Commission have been boiling like pressure cooker steam. With almost 50 lakh central government employees and 65 lakh pensioners waiting for the announcement with bated breath. Its latest development has a ray of hope. During a key interaction with the National Council-Joint Consultative Machinery (NC-JCM), Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan indicated that the Terms of Reference (TOR) — the formal go-ahead for the commission’s work — could be issued shortly.
Cabinet Secretary Breaks the Silence, Assurance Given
NC-JCM Secretary, Shiv Gopal Mishra said that in the meeting with the Cabinet Secretary, the increasing anxiety about the delay in the NAC announcement was taken up recently. The government has, finally after months, promised that the TOR wouldn’t be left pending for too long. For many, this is not merely a procedural obligation; it’s an initial step toward revised pay scales, new allowances, and long-pending acknowledgment of the mounting cost of living.
Recruitment Already Started, Signals Government Intent
Fanning the flames of speculation was an earlier government circular that stated that as many as 35 positions have already “formally” been sanctioned for the 8th Pay Commission — a sure-shot indication that things are on the march. While even a rough date has not been set, experts said this might occur between late 2026 and 2027.
Possible Salary Hike: Minimum Pay May Rise to ₹26,000
The word doing the rounds in the corridors of power is a hike in the minimum basic salary from the current ₹18,000 to ₹26,000. While nothing is certain, the number has ignited hope among employees grappling with inflation and increased costs.
Dearness Allowance (DA) Update: More Than Just a Bonus
If Pay Commission is food, A DA would be the food that no one can stop eating! For the June–December 2025 cycle, diviners predict a 3% hike — greater than the 2% increase seen earlier this year. With DA already at 55%, the next hike, due in October or November, will nudge it up another notch, adding some relief on the employees’ plate.
Conclusion: Countdown to Reform Begins
Though the 8th Pay Commission has not been officially announced by the government, indications are positive. With TOR likely to be issued in the near future and silent preparations already on, central employees may not have to wait for very long for some financial relief.
Sonia Gandhi Discharged, Health Stable After Infection Scare
