8th Central Pay Commission: Pensioners Urge Govt to Act Fast

Chandigarh-based RSCWS Appeals for Immediate Action to Avoid Uncertainty Among 1.12 Crore Beneficiaries

In a strong and heartfelt appeal addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Railways Senior Citizens Welfare Society (RSCWS) has urged the government to expedite the formal constitution of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). The move comes amid rising concerns over the delay in appointing the Commission’s Chairperson and members, despite the Union Cabinet’s approval earlier this year.

Cabinet Approval Welcomed, But Progress Stalls

The announcement of the 8th CPC in January 2025 was initially hailed as a proactive and welcome step by the government, especially considering that the current 7th CPC recommendations are due to expire on 31 December 2025. The 8th CPC is expected to come into effect from 1 January 2026, bringing relief to more than 47 lakh central government employees and over 65 lakh pensioners across India.

However, RSCWS notes that no formal steps have since been taken to constitute the commission or to publicly announce its Terms of Reference (ToR). This inaction, according to the organization, has led to uncertainty, speculation, and anxiety among the community it represents.

Key Concerns Raised in the Representation

In the letter dated 30 June 2025, signed by RSCWS Chairman T.S. Kalra, the following key issues were highlighted:

Delay in Formal Constitution

Despite the Cabinet’s nod, no announcement has been made regarding:

The Chairman and members of the 8th CPC
The Terms of Reference, which define the commission’s scope

Impact of Inflation

With prices of essential commodities and cost of living on the rise, a timely review of pay structures and pensions is critical. RSCWS emphasizes the need for the new commission to address:

Revised salary and allowances
Timely pension enhancements
Special demands like restoration of commuted pension after 12 years

Morale and Financial Security

The organization argues that timely pay revisions are essential to:

Boost employee morale and productivity
Ensure financial dignity for pensioners, who often struggle with medical and living expenses

Need for Transparency

The absence of official communication has triggered rumours and speculative narratives, leading to confusion among stakeholders. Publicizing the ToR and setting a clear timeline would greatly help in building trust.

Specific Requests Made to the PMO

The RSCWS has respectfully urged the Prime Minister’s Office to:

Immediately announce the constitution of the 8th CPC
Finalize and publish the Terms of Reference with clarity on scope
Communicate a fixed timeline for submission of recommendations and implementation by 01.01.2026

They underline that a proactive approach would reflect the government’s genuine concern for its employees and pensioners and avoid last-minute implementation hurdles.

About RSCWS

The Railways Senior Citizens Welfare Society (RSCWS), based in Chandigarh and established in 1991, is a registered body affiliated with Bharat Pensioners’ Samaj (BPS). The society represents retired railway personnel and is known for its consistent advocacy on behalf of pensioners, having also served on the Standing Committee for Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA).

View original letter: