FinMin to Lok Sabha: 8th Pay Panel timeline, funding later; ₹4-9 lakh crore burden feared

• Finance Ministry informed Lok Sabha that the 8th Central Pay Commission's implementation date will be decided later.
• Adequate budgetary provisions will be made for approved recommendations of the 8th CPC.
• The pay panel will submit recommendations within 18 months of its constitution (November 3, 2025).
• No proposal is currently under consideration to merge Dearness Allowance (DA) or Dearness Relief (DR) with basic pay.
• Concerns exist regarding the fiscal strain of the 8th CPC, with potential payouts exceeding ₹4 lakh crore, or ₹9 lakh crore with arrears.

Why It Matters: Future salaries/pensions for central govt employees depend on 8th Pay Commission decisions.