The Staff Side of the National Council under the Joint Consultative Machinery (NC-JCM) has written to the 8th Pay Commission, raising concerns about the current memorandum submission process. The representatives also highlighted several major issues and suggested key reforms to make the process more inclusive, detailed and effective.
In a letter dated April 1, 2026, addressed to Member Secretary Pankaj Jain, Staff Side Secretary Shiva Gopal Mishra said that several stakeholders have expressed dissatisfaction with the existing structure, citing limitations of the memorandum submission process.
They emphasised the need to address these issues to ensure that the process doesn't restrict comprehensive participation and detailed inputs.
What Did The Letter Say?
The NC-JCM, a platform for discussion between government officials and employee representatives on service-related issues, said the concerns need urgent attention to ensure a more transparent and participatory process.
"These concerns are being widely expressed by the stakeholders and require necessary modifications to ensure a more inclusive, comprehensive and effective submission system," the letter stated.
Key Demands Outlined
Increase Word Limit
Among the major demands, the Staff Side has called for an increase in the current 3,500-character (which is equivalent to 500 words) limit for submissions to at least 1,000 words per theme. They argued that the existing cap is insufficient for meaningful and complete representation.
Clear Provision For Sub-Questions
It also flagged the lack of clarity in addressing sub-questions or subtitles under each theme. The body recommended a more structured format that allows respondents to systematically respond to each sub-question without any restrictions.
Provision To Submit Views For Pension Reforms (NPS/UPS/OPS)
Pension-related issues were one of the most prominent things highlighted in the letter. The body raised concerns over the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), reiterating its demand for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) under Central Civil Services (CCS) Rules.
“Government employees should not be subjected to a contributory pension scheme,” the letter said.
Inclusion Of Pensioners Issues
The Staff Side called for a dedicated provision section to address pension-related issues, including retirement benefits, revisions, parity in pension, restoration of the commuted value of pension, enhancement of pension and other welfare measures.
Focus On Welfare Provisions for Women Employees
The letter also proposed the inclusion of a separate section on women employees' welfare. They suggested covering workplace safety, maternity benefits, menstrual health support, child care leave (CCL), and gender equity policies.
Department-Specific Issues
Recognising the varied challenges across different government departments, the Staff Side suggested that a provision should be made to allow submissions on department-specific issues to enable more targeted policy decisions.
Modes Of Submission And Increase In Attachment Size Limit
Highlighting technical constraints, the body pointed out that the current 2 MB attachment limit is inadequate. They proposed increasing it to 10 MB to facilitate detailed submissions with supporting documents.
It also recommended expanding submission modes beyond the online system to reduce technical barriers and improve accessibility. The letter suggests that entities should be allowed to submit their representation via email and hard copy.
“This will ensure accessibility, reduce technical barriers and provide an alternative mode of communication,” the body wrote.
Extension Of Submission Deadline
Additionally, the Staff Side has sought an extension of the submission deadline to May 31, 2026, stating that more time is needed for consultations with federations, unions and associations across the country.
The representatives have also expressed willingness to engage further with the Commission and requested a meeting after April 13, 2026.
“We would like to meet the 8th Central Pay Commission on any convenient date after 13-04-2026,” the body said in the letter.
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