During the Parliament Monsoon Session, the much-anticipated 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC), which will guide future pay revisions for millions of central government employees and pensioners, will be discussed in the Lok Sabha on Monday, 21 July 2025.
The Finance Ministry is expected to deliver key clarifications regarding the formation, structure, and timeline of the commission, an issue of growing concern among public sector workers.
MPs demand answers from Finance Ministry
Members of Parliament TR Baalu and Anand Bhadauria have formally submitted questions to the Finance Ministry, seeking comprehensive updates on the commission’s progress. They have asked for information on the current status of the commission’s establishment, reasons for any delay, and the expected schedule for appointing its Chairperson and Members. Additionally, they have sought clarity on the terms of reference (ToR) and the timeline for implementing revised pay structures and pensions.
The 7th Central Pay Commission was implemented in 2016, with pay revisions effective from 1 January that year. Following the traditional 10-year review cycle, the 8th CPC was expected to be constituted in 2024–25, with implementation likely by 2026. However, the delay in formalising the commission has caused increasing unease among government employees and pensioners, especially against the backdrop of rising inflation and long-standing demands for wage adjustments.
Speculations on pay hike
While there is no official word yet, reports have speculated that the 8th CPC could recommend a basic pay hike in the range of 40% to 50%. Fitment factors, which determine how pay is adjusted, are rumoured to lie between 1.92 and 2.86. These projections have fuelled hope among employees but have also added pressure on the government to act swiftly and transparently.
What to expect from Monsoon Session?
Parliament is set to begin the Monsoon Session today, with expectations of intense debates and sharp exchanges. The Opposition, led by the Congress, plans to corner the government on several pressing issues, including the delay in constituting the 8th Central Pay Commission, the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, and US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Operation Sindoor.
Questions over the voter list revision in Bihar ahead of elections are also on the agenda. Additionally, demands for full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, the continuing violence in Manipur, and concerns over India’s foreign policy are likely to spark significant discussion.