Central government employees anticipate a potential salary increase with the 8th Pay Commission, possibly effective from January 1, 2026. Following the precedent of the 7th Pay Commission, which saw revised salaries implemented in July 2016 with arrears from January 2016, employees expect similar retrospective benefits. If the 8th Pay Panel's recommendations are submitted by late 2027 and implemented in 2028, arrears from January 2026 are anticipated.