On Thursday morning, the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi made significant decisions, including approving two major plans with long-term implications for India’s space exploration and central government employees.

In a boost to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the cabinet sanctioned a Rs 3900 crore investment to establish a third launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This new launch pad will serve dual purposes: to support ISRO’s next-generation launch vehicles (NGLV) and as a backup for the second launch pad during emergencies. The facility, expected to be completed in four years, will also enhance India’s capabilities to carry out future human spaceflight missions, further solidifying the nation’s position in space exploration.

In another crucial development for over one crore central government employees and pensioners, the Union Cabinet announced the formation of a committee for the 8th pay commission, which will revise salaries and pensions with effect from January 1, 2026. A dedicated board comprising a chairman and two members will be tasked with restructuring the pay scales for all employees across various government departments. This revision comes after the previous pay commission, established in 2014, which was implemented in 2016.

The upcoming pay revision and allowances changes, based on the committee’s recommendations, are eagerly awaited by central government workers and pensioners. These decisions reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure and the welfare of its employees.