Rail Engineers Demand Pay Parity: AIREF Submits Formal Memorandum to 8th CPC
NEW DELHI – Taking a decisive step toward addressing long-standing grievances, the All India Railway Engineers Federation (AIREF) officially submitted its comprehensive memorandum to the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) on April 20, 2026.
The submission outlines critical demands regarding pay structure, promotional avenues, and working conditions for railway engineers across the country. Alongside the document, AIREF has formally requested an in-person hearing at the Commission’s headquarters in Delhi to further substantiate their proposals through direct interaction.
Key Highlights of the Submission
- Pay Structure Overhaul: Proposals for a revised pay matrix that reflects the high level of responsibility and technical expertise required in modern rail operations.
- Career Progression: Recommendations to eliminate stagnation in the Senior Section Engineer (SSE) and Junior Engineer (JE) cadres.
- Allowances & Benefits: Updates to risk and technical allowances in line with current economic inflation.
“Our memorandum is a data-driven reflection of the vital role engineers play in the safety and modernization of Indian Railways. We look forward to a constructive dialogue with the Commission in Delhi to ensure our members receive the recognition they deserve,” a spokesperson for AIREF stated.
The 8th CPC is currently evaluating submissions from various federal unions. The upcoming interaction between AIREF and the Commission is expected to be a pivotal moment for the technical workforce of the national transporter.

