8th Pay Commission : Big updates are coming in on the much-awaited 8th Pay Commission, which is expected to reshape the pay structure and benefits for nearly 48 lakh central government employees and 57 lakh pensioners.
The ball is now officially rolling as the Department of Expenditure under the Finance Ministry has begun preparations, including hiring 42 key staff members and finalizing the top leadership.
Recruitment Drive Begins—Chairman to Be Announced Soon
On April 21, 2025, the Finance Ministry issued two circulars announcing the appointment of 40 officers to the 8th Pay Commission. These include roles such as Directors/Deputy Secretaries, Under Secretaries, and support staff, all expected to be deputed from various government departments.
In addition to these, the government is also set to appoint a chairman and two key members separately. According to officials, the names for these top posts are almost final and could be officially announced very soon.
Fewer Members This Time Around
Interestingly, the 8th Pay Commission will have fewer members than its predecessor. For context:
- The 7th Pay Commission, headed by Justice Ashok Kumar Mathur, had 45 members, including 18 secretariat staff, 16 advisors, and 7 support staff.
- The 6th CPC had 4 members and 17 staff.
- Earlier commissions like the 5th, 3rd, and 4th had only 3 to 5 members each.
This time, it seems the government is keeping the team lean but efficient, focused on faster and more streamlined implementation.
Employee Side Also Kicks Off Preparations
It’s not just the government doing the groundwork. The employee unions under the National Council (JCM) are also moving quickly. During the Standing Committee meeting on April 22, major topics such as minimum wage, pay matrix revisions, fitment factor, allowances, promotion policies, and pension reforms were discussed.
A drafting committee has already been formed to gather feedback from various employee organizations. These organizations will submit the names of their reps by April 30, and the final memorandum is set to be ready by May 20, 2025.
No Official ToR Yet—But Momentum Is Building
While the government hasn’t officially announced the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the 8th Pay Commission, the recent circulars and behind-the-scenes preparations show that things are moving fast. Experts believe that the Commission could start working in the next few months, possibly by mid-2025.
Once operational, the 8th CPC will play a crucial role in deciding the new pay scales, allowances, and retirement benefits, shaping the future of lakhs of government employees and retirees.
In Summary
- 42 posts being filled, including the chairman and two members.
- Staff-side unions preparing a memorandum with key demands.
- ToR not released yet, but expected soon.
- Commission could be functional by mid-2025.
