Assam Becomes First State to Constitute 8th State Pay Commission

Assam has taken a lead in government pay reforms by becoming the first state in the country to set up its 8th State Pay Commission. This proactive decision comes just before the end of the 7th Pay Commission’s term on January 1, 2026. The move has drawn attention from state employees, pensioners, and other states, as pay commissions play a crucial role in revising salaries, allowances, and pensions of government staff. Early constitution of the panel signals Assam’s intent to speed up the pay revision process.

Why in the News?

Assam has constituted its 8th State Pay Commission, becoming the first state in India to do so. The decision was announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, ahead of the expiry of the 7th Pay Commission on January 1, 2026.

About the 8th State Pay Commission

A Pay Commission is set up by governments to review and recommend changes in,

• Salaries of government employees
• Allowances and service benefits
• Pensions of retired employees

The 8th State Pay Commission in Assam will replace the existing 7th Pay Commission framework and suggest revised pay structures based on current economic conditions, inflation, and fiscal capacity of the state.

Announcement and Leadership

• The constitution of the commission was announced by Himanta Biswa Sarma.
• Former Assam Chief Secretary Subhas Das has been appointed as the head of the new Pay Commission.
• With this step, Assam has moved ahead of other states and even the Centre, where the 8th Central Pay Commission is yet to formally begin its work.

Significance for State Employees and Pensioners

Assam’s early move is significant because,

• It provides early clarity to state government employees and pensioners.
• It may help in faster submission of recommendations compared to other states.
• If accepted quickly, revised salaries and pensions could be implemented earlier than usual.
• However, experts note that pay commissions generally take around 18 months to finalise their reports.

Background: Pay Commissions in India

• Pay Commissions are periodically set up by the Centre and states to revise government pay structures.
• The 7th Pay Commission is currently in force and ends on January 1, 2026.
• Recommendations of a Pay Commission are not automatic and require approval by the government.
• Revisions are often implemented retrospectively, with arrears paid later.

What Lies Ahead?

• Under normal practice,
• The 8th State Pay Commission may take about 18 months to submit its report.
• Although January 1, 2026 is the reference date, actual implementation may happen in late 2026 or early 2027.
• Assam’s early start could give its employees an advantage over those in other states.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q. Which state has become the first in India to constitute the 8th State Pay Commission?
A. Kerala
B. Assam
C. Gujarat
D. Maharashtra