Multiple reports say employee unions are pressing for changes that would raise the minimum basic pay under the proposed 8th Pay Commission framework. NDTV reports that the current minimum basic pay level being discussed starts at Rs 18,000, but unions are asking for an increased fitment factor. According to the “math” described in the coverage, a higher fitment factor could lift the minimum basic pay to about Rs 69,000. The reports indicate that the final figure depends on what fitment factor and related adjustments the government ultimately approves, rather than any automatic rise. While the calculations show a potential ceiling figure cited by unions, the reports do not suggest the Rs 69,000 amount has been formally confirmed. Instead, they frame it as a demand and a projection tied to the fitment factor decision. The overall theme across sources is that union negotiations focus on the fitment factor as the key variable determining how far the minimum basic pay could increase under the 8th Pay Commission.