8th Pay Commission Update 2026: Minimum Salary Likely at ₹51,480, Pension ₹25,740 with 2.86 Fitment Factor

The government is preparing to launch the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). It is expected to start from January 2026. This change will affect more than 1 crore central employees and pensioners.

The 8th CPC will replace the 7th CPC, which began in 2016. Employee groups are asking the government to set it up early so there is no delay.

Fitment Factor Likely to Increase

One of the biggest changes will be the fitment factor. In the 7th CPC, it was 2.57. In the 8th CPC, experts believe it may increase to 2.86.

The fitment factor is important because it decides salary and pension rise. If this change is approved, employees and pensioners will see a big hike.

Salary Hike Under 8th CPC

With the new fitment factor, salaries will increase at all levels. Here is the expected salary chart:

Level	Current Salary (7th CPC)	Expected Salary (8th CPC)
Level 1	Rs 18,000	Rs 51,480
Level 5	Rs 29,200	Rs 83,512
Level 10	Rs 56,100	Rs 1,60,446
Level 13A	Rs 1,31,100	Rs 3,74,946
Level 18	Rs 2,50,000	Rs 7,15,000

With these new salaries, allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Travel Allowance (TA) will also increase.

Pension Hike for Retirees

Pensioners will also get benefits from the 8th CPC. The same fitment factor will apply for pensions.

The minimum pension may rise from Rs 9,000 to Rs 25,740. This will be a big help for retired workers who depend on pension income.

History of Pay Commissions

Since independence, there have been seven pay commissions. The last one, the 7th CPC, started in 2016. Its term will end in 2026.

The government has already started planning for the 8th CPC in 2025. This is to make sure the new rules are ready on time.

Employee Bodies Push for Early Setup

The Government Employees National Confederation (GENC) has written to the government. They requested that the commission be formed soon.

They want the new rules to begin smoothly from January 1, 2026. The minister said talks with states are already happening.

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