8th CPC Early indications suggest fitment factor of 2.86, minimum pay @ 51,480

Early indications suggest a fitment factor of 2.86, potentially raising the minimum basic salary to Rs 51,480.

The Union Cabinet has approved the formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission, signaling a significant salary hike for over one crore central government employees and pensioners. The proposed fitment factor of 2.86 could increase the minimum basic salary from Rs 18,000 to Rs 51,480.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw made the announcement, highlighting plans to implement the revised pay structure by 2026, coinciding with the end of the current commission’s term. For pensioners, the minimum pension is expected to rise from Rs 9,000 to Rs 25,740 under the new recommendations.

This development continues the government’s decade-long tradition of systematic pay revisions. The 7th Pay Commission, implemented in 2016, had set a fitment factor of 2.57, increasing the minimum salary from Rs 7,000 to Rs 18,000.

“The early establishment of the 8th Pay Commission ensures timely salary revisions,” Vaishnaw stated during a press briefing in New Delhi. The proactive move provides ample time for a thorough review and smooth implementation of the recommendations.

Historical data reflects a steady rise in basic salaries—from Rs 30 under the first pay commission to Rs 80 under the second and Rs 18,000 under the seventh. The anticipated 186% increase under the 8th Pay Commission would be among the largest to date.

The government’s timely announcement of the new commission underscores its commitment to enhancing public sector compensation through a systematic and transparent process.