8th Pay Commission Salary Revision Expected to Be Delayed Beyond 2026

The 8th Central Pay Commission, set to revise salaries, allowances, and pensions for central government employees, is officially effective from January 1, 2026. However, experts and credit agencies like ICRA indicate that the commission's recommendations are still in progress, with final approval and implementation likely delayed until 2027 or early 2028. While the Union Cabinet has approved the Terms of Reference and some states, like Assam, have initiated their own pay panels, the actual salary hikes and arrears depend on the government's acceptance of the final report, which may extend the timeline beyond 2026.