The much-talked-about 9th National Pay Scale for Bangladesh now appears to be closer to implementation, raising hopes among millions of government employees who expect major salary revisions after years of rising living costs.
Reports and draft proposals are doing the rounds that the new pay structure would result in a huge increase in basic pay and allowances of almost all grades of government employees. Officials are reportedly considering a phased implementation because the reform could place a huge financial burden on the national budget.
The move is being viewed as one of the biggest reforms in public sector pay since the introduction of the 8th National Pay Scale in 2015.
Proposed Salary Structure: Huge Increase
The new structure could have 20 pay grades with big jumps in both minimum and maximum salaries, according to draft recommendations.
According to reports:
- Minimum basic salary to increase to Tk 20,000 from Tk 8,250
- Maximum salary may rise to Tk 160,000 from Tk 78,000
- Grade 1 Salary may start from Tk 1,60,000.
- The salary of the 9th grade ranges from Tk 45,100 to Tk 108,800.
If confirmed, the largest percentage rise is predicted to be for lower-grade employees compared with senior officials. Economists say the proposed changes could double or increase salaries by up to 147 percent depending on grade, allowances and final approval structure.
Allowances Also Likely to Rise Sharply
Beyond the basic salary, a few significant allowances could also see a substantial jump under the new system.
Suggested solutions are:
- Boishakhi allowance to be raised to 50% from 20% of the basic salary
- Tiffin allowance for Grades 11–20 has been raised from Tk 200 to Tk 1,000.
- Employees with disabled children to get Tk 2,000 monthly allowance
- Medical allowance may be increased up to Tk 4,000-5,000 depending on the age category.
However, reports suggest that Eid bonuses could remain flat in the wider salary revisions. The new structure could also help in pension calculations as retirement benefits are closely tied to basic pay levels.
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Government Under Tremendous Fiscal Strain
The proposed reforms may be welcomed by employees, but economists are warning that the government could face a huge financial impact.
Some estimates suggest that the 9th Pay Scale might raise annual expenditure by Tk 70,000-80,000 crore. As a result, authorities are reportedly considering a gradual rollout rather than imposing all changes at once.
Discussions indicate:
- Partial implementation can be started from 1 January 2026
- Full implementation from 1 July 2026
But final approval and implementation timetables are still pending government review and fiscal planning.
Government Workers Optimistic
Government employees across Bangladesh are keenly watching the developments regarding the proposed pay scale. Many workers say the urgent need for salary restructuring has been fuelled by rising inflation, housing costs, transport costs and healthcare bills.
The 9th National Pay Scale, if implemented as planned, may lead to a considerable rise in monthly take-home income and contribute to the long-term financial security of retired government employees.
Summary:
Bangladesh’s proposed 9th National Pay Scale could sharply increase government salaries, pensions, and allowances, with minimum pay potentially rising to Tk 20,000 and top salaries reaching Tk 160,000. The government may introduce the reforms gradually, beginning in 2026, due to the major budget impact.
