Contrary to social media claims, the 8th Pay Commission has not automatically come into effect for India's central government employees and pensioners on January 1, 2026. While the 7th Pay Commission's term ended, the formation of the 8th Pay Commission and its Terms of Reference have been approved, but this does not signify immediate implementation. Historically, Pay Commissions do not operate on an automatic handover, with recommendations often finalized, approved, and implemented much later, sometimes retrospectively, leading to recurring confusion.