News24 Exclusive: 8th Pay Commission

Shiv Gopal Mishra, secretary staff side NC–JCM (National Council – Joint Consultative Machinery) in this exclusive conversation with News24’s Akshat Mittal, talked about the 8th Pay Commission. In this interview, he revealed expected fitment factor and timeline of the new Pay Commission.

Let’s delve deeper into the conversation to gain more insights.

8th Pay Commission: Excerpts From The Interview

1- What fitment factor do you think would be suitable for the 8th Pay Commission?

“We demanded the fitment factor of 3.26 under 7th Pay Commission, but were only given 2.57 as fitment. The demand we make is based on an established formula, Dr. Wallace Aykroyd formula. We factor in house rents, transport and other allowances along with consumer price index (CPI) before deciding the fitment. Although, we have not finalized the fitment, but I think the fitment factor under 8th Pay Commission should be “at least 2.86”. However, we are trying to fine-tune it. The fitment factor of 2.08 will not be adequate by any means.

I can’t say the fitment factor under the new Pay Commission will be 2.86, but I think it should be 2.86. Staff side of NC–JCM and other experts are working on it.”

2- When is the new Pay Commission expected to be formed, and what is the likely timeline for its implementation?

“DoPT (Department of Personnel and Training) has written a letter to us for the Terms and References, and we are going to reply to them very soon. Afterward, DoPT Secretary might call a meeting of Staff Side. I hope that our work on Terms and References will be done in 7–10 days. Nomination of member for the Pay Commission is the work of government. I hope that too will be done in 7–10 days. The government is really working fast on the Pay Commission this time.

I’m optimistic that the 8th Pay Commission will be established by February 15th, 2025. The Commission’s report will be finalized by November 30th, and the government will review it in December for further consideration, and the new Pay Commission can be implemented from January 2026 in the country.”

3- With some states following older Pay Commissions, should there be a unified system applying the central Pay Commission nationwide?

Yes, a central pay commission should be universally applicable, benefiting both central government employees and state government employees. In fact, most states have already adopted similar measures.

4- Will Dearness Allowance (DA) be reset to zero, when the 8th Pay Commission is implemented?

Yes, when the new pay commission will be implemented, the DA will be reset to zero. The current DA will be merged in the fitment.

5- Will gratuity be raised under the new Pay Commission?

We’ll do what’s needed. We think the gratuity should too be increased, ensuring employees receive more than the government’s limit if they’re eligible.

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