8th Pay Commission : Central employees are more eagerly awaiting the recommendations of the Eighth Pay Commission than they are for the dearness allowance for the July-December half-year.
In fact, in January, the central government announced the formation of the Eighth Pay Commission, but neither the committee nor the notification regarding its implementation has been issued. Consequently, central employees’ anxiety regarding the Eighth Pay Commission is growing.
Speculations are circulating in various sections of the media regarding this new Pay Commission. It is anticipated that the new Pay Commission will determine the salary structure of central government employees based on the fitment factor. Meanwhile, speculation is also rife regarding the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), which is considered the backbone of central government employees’ healthcare services.
What changes can happen?
There is intense discussion about replacing the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) with a new insurance-based scheme. Media reports suggest the central government may abolish the CGHS and launch a new health program based on the recommendations of the 8th Pay Commission. This isn’t the first time discussions have been underway to replace the CGHS. The previous three Pay Commissions—the 5th, 6th, and 7th—have also recommended replacing the CGHS with other schemes. Changes are expected this time too to modernize healthcare services. It’s worth noting that the government has not yet made any official announcements.
There have been many changes in CGHS.
The CGHS has undergone several major changes during the Seventh Pay Commission era. For example, efforts have begun to link CGHS cards with the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (Abha). Employees whose salaries are deducted for CGHS contributions are now automatically issued cards.
Similarly, changes were made such as providing treatment without referral in government hospitals, consultation with three specialist doctors on a single referral in private hospitals, and lowering the age limit to 70. These reforms significantly eased access to healthcare for employees and pensioners.
