The proposed implementation of the new pay structure for government officials, commonly referred to as the Ninth Pay Scale, remains under review and discussion. While the government has expressed policy-level support, ongoing economic instability and global uncertainties have reinforced the need for a phased and cautious rollout.
Government sources indicate that heightened tensions and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have exacerbated economic uncertainty. In particular, strained relations among Iran, Israel, and the United States are negatively impacting global markets. Consequently, the government appears inclined to adopt a ‘slow and steady’ approach towards implementing the new pay scale. On the other hand, public sector employees are pressing for an expedited rollout to address long-standing pay disparities.
Officials from the Ministry of Finance have noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has already assured government employees that the new pay scale will eventually be implemented. However, fiscal constraints may prevent the simultaneous execution of all the commission’s recommendations, necessitating a carefully phased approach.
On Tuesday, 10 March, a meeting took place at the Secretariat between the Finance Minister and Zakir Ahmed Khan, chairman of the Rural Development Support Foundation (PKSF) and head of the Pay Commission. The discussions centred on the commission’s report and the potential schedule for implementation. Earlier, on 18 February, Finance Minister Amir Khusru Mahmud Chowdhury had stated that a decision on implementing the new pay structure would depend on careful consideration of tax revenue and the nation’s financial position.
According to the Finance Ministry, the new pay scale is proposed to take effect from the 2026–27 fiscal year. Yet, midway through the current fiscal year, a revenue shortfall exceeding 60,000 crore taka has already emerged, and rising inflation alongside global economic volatility poses further challenges.
The Pay Commission has formally submitted its recommendations to the government. The report suggests a gradual, stepwise implementation. Previously, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed had remarked that the commission’s recommendations are practical, with the responsibility for final execution resting with the elected government.
The table below summarises key aspects of the Ninth Pay Scale:
| Subject | Details | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Commission Formation | 21-member Pay Commission | Chaired by former Finance Secretary Zakir Ahmed Khan |
| Report Submission | 21 January 2026 | Submitted to government for review |
| Proposed Implementation | Fiscal Year 2026–27 | Likely to be phased |
| Financial Situation | Revenue shortfall of 60,000+ crore taka | Inflation and global instability impact |
| Government Policy | ‘Slow and steady’ | Adequate funding required for rapid implementation |
Despite ongoing challenges, the prospect of a phased rollout remains. Coordinated efforts among stakeholders and careful planning could eventually ensure the new pay scale is implemented in stages, alleviating long-standing salary disparities and enhancing public sector morale.