NC-JCM Flags Key Concerns, Seeks Changes in Memorandum Submission Process for 8th CPC

The Staff Side of the National Council (JCM) has written to the Member Secretary of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC), highlighting several concerns and suggesting key changes to improve the process of submitting memoranda by employees, unions, federations, and associations.

In a letter dated April 1, 2026, Secretary Shiva Gopal Mishra forwarded important points for consideration, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive, comprehensive, and effective submission system.

Concerns Over Word Limit

One of the primary issues raised is the current word limit of 3,500 characters (approximately 500 words) per theme. According to the Staff Side, this limit is inadequate for presenting detailed views, data, and justifications on complex matters. It has been proposed that the limit be increased to at least 1,000 words per theme to enable meaningful submissions.

Need for Structured Submissions

The letter points out that the existing format does not clearly facilitate responses to all sub-questions or sub-themes under the nine themes identified by the 8th CPC. It suggests introducing a more structured format that allows respondents to address each sub-question systematically without restrictions.

Issues Related to Pension Schemes

The Staff Side has also called for a dedicated provision to submit views on the review of the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), along with demands for restoration of the Old Pension Scheme under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 (now 2021). The letter notes that employees under NPS and those who opted for UPS are facing several grievances, and their concerns need proper representation.

Inclusion of Pensioners’ Issues

Recognizing the importance of pensioners, the letter recommends a separate provision to address their concerns. These include retirement benefits, revision and parity in pensions, restoration of commuted pension value, and other welfare measures.

Welfare Measures for Women Employees

The Staff Side has proposed a dedicated section focusing on women employees. Suggested areas include safety, maternity benefits, menstrual leave, Child Care Leave (CCL), workplace equity, and welfare schemes.

Department-Specific Concerns

The letter highlights that different departments face unique operational and cadre-related challenges. It recommends allowing separate submissions on department-specific issues to support better policy formulation.

Extension of Submission Deadline

To facilitate wider consultation among stakeholders across the country, the Staff Side has requested an extension of the deadline for submitting memoranda on department-specific issues up to May 31, 2026.

Enhancement of Attachment Size Limit

Another technical concern raised is the current attachment size limit of 2 MB for submissions. The letter states that this is restrictive, especially for detailed reports and data annexures, and suggests increasing the limit to at least 10 MB.

Multiple Modes of Submission

The Staff Side has also proposed allowing submissions via email and hard copy, in addition to online mode. This, it argues, would improve accessibility, reduce technical barriers, and provide alternative communication channels.

Request for Meeting

The letter concludes with a request for a meeting with the 8th Central Pay Commission on a convenient date after April 13, 2026, to further discuss these issues.

The Staff Side has urged the Commission to consider these suggestions positively to ensure a more inclusive and effective consultation process.

View NC-JCM letter: