The National Council of the Joint Consultative Machinery (NC-JCM) is set to hold its 49th annual meeting on May 11, 2026, chaired by the cabinet secretary. Key agenda items include addressing the full reimbursement of medical expenses, increasing family pensions, and revising the definition of 'family' to include widowed daughters-in-law for pension claims. The staff side will advocate for an additional pension for employees aged 65 and above and propose that family pensions be equal to the full pension amount. Additionally, the meeting will discuss the need for more Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) centers in district locations and the reimbursement of medical treatment expenses. The NC-JCM will also push for regional recruitment to fill non-gazetted posts, addressing severe manpower shortages in less-preferred areas. Furthermore, the employee body will seek a revision of the Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACP) for pharmacists to ensure fair promotions.