8th Pay Commission Latest Update 2026: After the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission, changes are expected not only in the basic salary but also in HRA, travel allowance, and medical allowance. This means that in-hand salary could increase significantly.

8th Pay Commission DA Hike for Government Employees: After the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission, there may be a big jump in the minimum basic salary of government employees.

8th Pay Commission News: The year 2026 is going to be a great year for central government employees and pensioners. If you are in a government job or receiving pension benefits, there's good news for you. New inflation data has arrived, clearly indicating a significant increase in your salary and pension. The government has also intensified its efforts regarding the 8th Pay Commission (2026), making it clear that you'll be seeing more money in your pockets in the coming days.

How much will the dearness allowance increase?

A major update has arrived regarding employees' dearness allowance (DA). The Consumer Price Index (AICPI-IW) saw a 0.5 point increase in November, bringing it to 148.2. This index has been rising steadily for the past five months. Based on the November data, dearness allowance has now reached 59.93%. This means that starting January 2026, the DA could reach 60%, up from 58% last year. If December data also rises, employees will see a significant increase in their salaries.

However, the final decision will be taken by the government; hence it would be premature to expect an increase of 2% or 3% right now.

How is the increase in DA and DR decided?

Many people want to know how the government raises this money. Simply put, the government reviews inflation data every six months and determines DA for employees and DR for pensioners based on that data. The current figures are for the period from July to November.

The December data will be the final step for the new rates, which will take effect in January. If inflation trends remain the same, employees will receive more government support to combat inflation in the first half of the New Year.

8th Pay Commission Updates

The picture regarding the 8th Pay Commission (8th Pay Commission Latest Update) is now becoming clearer. The government granted the necessary approvals in November 2025. This new commission is headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. Although its recommendations may take approximately 18 months to come, the good news is that they will be effective from January 1, 2026.

This means that even if there is a delay in implementing the rules, the employees will still get the entire arrears of the past period together.

How much will the salary and pension increase?

Following the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission (8th Pay Commission Salary Hike), the minimum basic salary of government employees could see a significant increase. According to ongoing discussions, the minimum salary could rise from ₹18,000 to ₹26,000.

There's also good news for the 6.9 million pensioners. The government has clarified that pension revision will be given special priority this time. Consequently, their minimum pension is expected to increase to ₹20,500.

With the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission, changes are expected not only in basic salary but also in HRA, travel allowance, and medical allowance. This means that in-hand salary could increase significantly.

Fitment factor and arrears benefit

Employee organizations have been demanding an increase in the fitment factor. If the Commission accepts this demand, salaries could see the largest increase ever. Currently, it is expected to be between 2.28 and 3.0. Since the 7th Pay Commission expired on December 31, 2025, the new system will be considered effective from January 1, 2026. Employees who are about to retire or are currently in service will benefit from the new pay scale, and the government will also provide substantial arrears in case of delays.

 PC: NDTV