The Union Budget 2026-27, presented on February 1, remained completely silent on the formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission. Despite high expectations for a setup announcement, the Finance Minister’s speech did not address the JCM’s demand for a 3.68 Fitment Factor. Consequently, the Confederation of Central Government Employees has confirmed the nationwide strike scheduled for February 12, 2026.
Note: DoPT rules regarding “Dies Non” (No Work, No Pay) usually apply during such strikes. Employees are advised to check official circulars before participation.
1. Budget 2026: The “Silence” Explained
Employees were expecting the government to constitute the commission in the Budget session to ensure implementation by January 1, 2026 (Retrospective). The absence of this announcement suggests two possibilities:
- Scenario A: The Government may announce it separately via a Cabinet decision later in the Monsoon Session.
- Scenario B: The Government relies on the “Automatic Pay Revision” module (Aykroyd Formula) without a full commission, though no framework exists yet.
2. Why Fitment Factor Matters Now?
With the commission delayed, the “Fitment Factor” becomes the only tool to bridge the gap between the 7th CPC salary and the inflation-adjusted reality. The battle is now between the Union’s demand and the Government’s fiscal formula.
| Scenario | Fitment Factor | Min Basic (Est) | Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Govt Formula | 1.92 – 1.96 | ₹34,560 | High |
| Union Demand | 3.68 | ₹26,000 (Net) | Low |
| Compromise | 2.86 | ₹51,480 | Medium |
For a deeper analysis of why the 1.96 factor is statistically more likely than 2.86, read our detailed report: The Truth About Fitment Factor: Why 1.92 is the Real Number.
3. Feb 12 Strike: Demands & Rules
The Confederation has listed the following core demands for the strike on February 12:
- Immediate constitution of 8th CPC.
- Settlement of 18-month DA Arrears (Covid period).
- Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
- Scrapping of “Very Good” benchmark for MACP.
Did Budget 2026 mention 8th Pay Commission?
No. The Union Budget 2026-27 did not mention the 8th Pay Commission or any salary revision committee. The government has maintained that “no proposal is under consideration” as of the budget presentation.
Is the Feb 12 Strike confirmed?
Yes, the Confederation of Central Govt Employees has confirmed the strike for February 12, 2026, to protest the budget silence and demand OPS restoration.
हिंदी सारांश: बजट 2026 और हड़ताल
बजट 2026 में 8वें वेतन आयोग पर सरकार की चुप्पी के बाद केंद्रीय कर्मचारी संगठनों ने 12 फरवरी 2026 को देशव्यापी हड़ताल की पुष्टि की है। कर्मचारी 3.68 फिटमेंट फैक्टर और पुरानी पेंशन (OPS) की मांग कर रहे हैं। हालांकि, सरकार की तरफ से अभी कोई प्रस्ताव नहीं है। हड़ताल में भाग लेने वाले कर्मचारियों पर ‘Dies Non’ (वेतन कटौती) का नियम लागू हो सकता है।
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