Minimum Pension of ₹7500 and Free Medical Facilities: EPS-95 pensioners are demanding a minimum pension of ₹7500 and free medical facilities. To press their demands, they will stage a protest at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on December 10 and 11, 2024.
If their demands are not met, they have warned of an indefinite hunger strike. This decision was made during a meeting of the EPS-95 National Struggle Committee, which criticized the government for delaying action. Pensioners have urged the government to address their issues immediately, failing which they may initiate a nationwide strike.
Urgent Notice: Submit Your Life Certificate
Pensioners who haven’t submitted their life certificates are urged to do so immediately to avoid suspension of their pension. Submitting a life certificate annually is essential to confirm that you are alive and eligible to continue receiving your pension. If you haven’t completed this process yet, ensure it is done without delay.
4% Hike in Dearness Allowance Expected
Dearness Allowance (DA) is revised twice a year. As of January 2024, the total DA was 50%, which increased to 53% in July 2024. Based on AICPI data, the DA is expected to rise by 4% in January 2025, bringing the total to 57%.
This increase will significantly boost pensions, with an estimated hike of ₹2000 to ₹5000 depending on the basic pension.
Formation of the Eighth Pay Commission
Discussions about the Eighth Pay Commission are gaining momentum. A meeting of the JCM Staff Side with the Cabinet Secretary of India is scheduled for November 30, 2024, where this issue will be discussed.
The Eighth Pay Commission is expected to be implemented from January 1, 2026. Timely formation of the commission is crucial to avoid delays in disbursing revised salaries and pensions. The JCM Staff Side’s national chairman has urged the government to set up the committee soon, and this matter will likely be considered in the meeting.
Expected Fitment Factor in the Eighth Pay Commission
Employees and pensioners are curious about the fitment factor under the Eighth Pay Commission. It is anticipated to be 1.92.
For example:
- If an employee or pensioner’s current basic pay is ₹18,000, the revised basic pay will be calculated as follows:
₹18,000 × 1.92 = ₹34,560
This new basic pay will serve as the foundation for calculating dearness allowance and other benefits.
Stay updated on these developments as they are crucial for all employees and pensioners.