8th Pay Commission: Delayed Rollout Could Mean ₹2.85 Lakh Arrears

• The 8th Pay Commission is expected to be implemented by early 2028, with its Terms of Reference already approved.
• Central government employees could see a 30-34% increase in salary and pension, based on a new fitment factor likely around 2.28.
• If implemented in January 2028 but made effective from January 2026, employees could receive 24 months of arrears.
• A minimum basic pay employee could get approximately ₹2.8-3 lakh in arrears due to delayed implementation and backdated effect.
• The commission will review basic pay, HRA, other allowances, pension, gratuity, and retirement benefits.

Why It Matters: Central employees may receive substantial salary hikes and arrears from the 8th Pay Commission.