The much-anticipated discussion on the 8th Pay Commission for central employees is expected in an upcoming Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM) meeting. Shiv Gopal Mishra, the head of the All India Railwaymen’s Federation and the JCM’s National Council Secretary, has indicated that the meeting, likely to be held next month, might provide more insight into the formation of this commission.

Demand for the 8th Pay Commission

Central employees’ unions, advocating for salary adjustments, have already submitted two memos to the government, calling for the 8th Pay Commission’s formation. The last pay revision happened under the 7th Pay Commission, which was constituted in 2014, with its recommendations implemented in 2016. Typically, a new pay commission is formed every 10 years, but it is not mandatory.

Role of the Pay Commission

Pay Commissions review, revise, and recommend improvements in salaries, allowances, and other benefits for central employees and pensioners. Since the first commission in 1946, seven such commissions have been established.

Why the 8th Pay Commission is Needed

The Indian Railways Technical Supervisors Association (IRTSA) also supports forming the 8th Pay Commission. They argue that the economic landscape, nature of work, and service demands have changed significantly since the last commission. The 7th Pay Commission suggested periodic reviews of the pay matrix, but waiting a decade between updates is seen as too lengthy by employee unions, given evolving job requirements and inflation.

Government’s Stance

So far, the government has not released an official statement on the 8th Pay Commission. However, the upcoming JCM meeting is likely to address this matter. If there’s progress toward establishing the commission, it could be a significant relief for central employees.

What’s Next?

The formation of the 8th Pay Commission would be a major step, especially as employee unions emphasize the need for regular salary revisions aligned with current economic conditions.