New Delhi, July 28 -- The 8th Pay Commission will complete half of its allocated time in August 2026. Since its constitution in November 2025, the Commission has held several consultations across the nation, including Delhi, West Bengal and Odisha.

With discussions lined up in August and September, the debate surrounding the possible fitment factor has gathered pace. Prominent unions and associations have pushed for a multiplier well above 3.

During the last two pay commissions, i.e., the 6th and 7th, the fitment factors were set at 1.86 and 2.57, respectively. In the current 8th Pay Commission, if a higher fitment factor is adopted, it would increase salaries and pensions, and the government's recurring expenditure.

The 8th Pay Commis...