The central government has assured that the 8th Pay Commission will be set up soon. The minister also confirmed that discussions are going on with state governments before the official announcement. This comes as a relief for more than 1 crore central government employees and pensioners.
Meeting Between GENC and the Minister
A delegation from the Government Employees National Confederation (GENC), linked with Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), met Union Minister Jitendra Singh on August 4, 2025. They discussed the delay in forming the 8th Pay Commission and other employee concerns. The minister assured that the panel will be formed soon.
Progress on 8th Pay Commission
The 8th Pay Commission was announced in January 2025. However, there has been no progress since then, and employees are waiting for the appointment of members and Terms of Reference (ToR). The minister promised that the government is working on this matter actively.
Key Demands Raised in the Meeting
The GENC delegation presented a detailed memorandum with long-pending demands. The minister gave assurances and promised further discussions. Below is a table of major issues raised and the responses given:
| Issue Raised | Employee Demand | Minister’s Response |
| 8th CPC formation | Urgent setup of 8th Pay Commission | Will be announced soon after state consultations |
| Pension system | Scrap NPS & UPS, restore OPS | Meeting held with Pension Secretary on Aug 5 |
| Compassionate appointments | Raise quota above 5% | Not possible due to legal limits |
| Commuted pension | Restore after 12 years instead of 15 | No proposal under consideration |
| Promotion | Reduce residency period | To be discussed in 8th CPC |
| Medical facilities | Cashless treatment in CGHS & CS(MA) hospitals | Will take up with Health Ministry |
| JCM meetings | Ensure regular meetings | Ministries directed to follow instructions |
| Re-employed ex-servicemen | Uniform pay fixation and leave encashment | Under examination |
| Recruitment rules | Common rules for fire staff and other cadres | Proposal will be examined |
| Leave rules | Convert HPL (3 days) into commuted leave without certificate | Appears reasonable; will be reviewed |
Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (OPS)
One of the strongest demands was to restore the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). GENC opposed both the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The minister quickly arranged a meeting with the Pension Secretary to discuss this matter further.
Other Important Issues
The employees also demanded the release of 18 months of DA arrears that were stopped during COVID-19. However, this demand was not accepted. Issues like cadre review, pay fixation of re-employed ex-servicemen, and model recruitment rules were noted for further study.
Minister’s Assurance
The meeting ended on a positive note. The minister praised the constructive approach of GENC and promised to address genuine issues. He also assured that the government will move forward with the formation of the 8th Pay Commission soon.
FAQs
When will the 8th Pay Commission be announced?
Soon, after consultation with state governments.
Will the Old Pension Scheme be restored?
Discussions are ongoing with the Pension Secretary.
What about DA arrears of 18 months?
That demand was withdrawn.
That demand was withdrawn.
Will promotions be faster under the 8th CPC?
Will promotions be faster under the 8th CPC?
Is cashless medical treatment coming?