Government Introduces Unified Pension Scheme

The Indian government has introduced the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for central government employees, effective April 1, 2025, aiming to provide enhanced financial security and stability. The UPS replaces the National Pension System (NPS) and guarantees an assured pension equal to 50% of the last drawn salary with inflation adjustments. Maharashtra has become the first state to adopt UPS, and other states are encouraged to follow. The scheme includes benefits like a family pension at 60% of the employee's pension and increased government contributions to 18.5%. The UPS has received mixed reactions, with support from Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and employee unions, but criticism from opposition parties. The operational framework is still being developed, with further clarifications awaited on aspects like lump sum payments and pension revisions.