8th Pay Commission: Rs 3-6 Lakh Arrears Expected, Huge Salary Hike for Central Employees

• The 8th Pay Commission is set to replace the 7th Pay Commission, with new salaries effective from January 1, 2026.
• Central government employees and pensioners could receive Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 6 lakh in arrears due to delays in implementation, covering 12-24 months.
• The fitment factor, crucial for salary increases, is estimated to range from 1.83 to 2.57, significantly raising minimum basic pay.
• Minimum basic pay for Level 1 employees could increase from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 34,560 (1.92 fitment) or Rs. 46,260 (2.57 fitment).
• Pensioners will also benefit, with the minimum pension potentially doubling from Rs. 9,000 to Rs. 20,500, impacting 68 lakh individuals.

Why It Matters: The 8th Pay Commission promises substantial salary hikes and arrears for central government employees and pensioners.