Udaipur, March 25, 2025: If you are a central government employee, there is an important update regarding your retirement planning. The Pension Fund Regulatory Authority of India (PFRDA) has announced the implementation of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) starting from April 1, 2025. This new scheme will provide government employees with the benefit of a guaranteed pension. Let’s understand it in detail.

Who Will Be Eligible for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) will benefit:

• Government employees in service until April 1, 2025, who are already under the National Pension Scheme (NPS).
• Employees who join Central Government services after April 1, 2025.

Who Will Not Be Eligible?

The following employees will not receive benefits under this scheme:

• Employees dismissed from service.
• Employees fired from their jobs.
• Employees who have voluntarily resigned.

Old Pension Scheme (OPS) vs. New Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

In 2004, the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) was replaced by the National Pension Scheme (NPS). NPS pensions were market-linked, depending on stock market and government bond performance. UPS has introduced a guaranteed minimum pension, offering employees greater financial security.

Benefits of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

• Pension will be 50% of the average basic salary from the last 12 months.
• Employees must have completed at least 25 years of service to qualify.
• Employees contribute 10% of their basic salary + DA.
• The government will contribute 18.5%, strengthening the pension fund.

How to Apply for the Unified Pension Scheme?

• Online Application: Employees can register online starting April 1, 2025, through the official Protean CRA website.
• Offline Application: A manual application option will also be available.

When Was the Unified Pension Scheme Approved?

The Central Government approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) on August 24, 2024.

Objective of the Scheme

The scheme aims to provide a fixed and secure post-retirement income for government employees, ensuring financial stability.