Unified Pension Scheme Introduced for AIS Officers in Rajasthan: Is MP Next?

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has been implemented for All India Services (AIS) officers of the Rajasthan cadre, as per a notification issued by the Department of Personnel (DOP). This scheme will serve as an optional benefit under the existing National Pension System (NPS).

The central government has introduced UPS as an alternative for NPS-covered employees who choose to opt for it.

What is the Unified Pension Scheme?

The Unified Pension Scheme offers an assured payout at the time of retirement. The main features of the payout are:

• 50% assured pension based on the average basic pay of the last 12 months before retirement, if the employee completes 25 years of service.

• If the employee has less than 25 years of service, the payout will be proportional to the number of years worked.

• A minimum guaranteed pension of ₹10,000 per month will be provided to those retiring after 10 years or more of qualifying service.

• For those taking voluntary retirement after 25 years, the assured pension will begin from the normal superannuation date, not immediately.

Who is Eligible for Unified Pension Scheme?

To receive the assured payout under UPS, an employee must meet one of these conditions:

• Superannuation after at least 10 years of qualifying service.
• Retirement under FR 56(j) (not as a penalty).
• Voluntary retirement after 25 years, with the pension starting from the expected superannuation date.

Madhya Pradesh Also Moves Toward Unified Pension Scheme 

As per news reports, the Madhya Pradesh government is considering implementing UPS for its state employees.

The state cabinet has approved a six-member committee to evaluate the plan. This committee includes senior officers like Ashok Barnwal and Manish Rastogi. They will study the Centre’s guidelines and submit a detailed report.

Although not mandatory for states, Maharashtra was the first to adopt the scheme, and now Madhya Pradesh is actively exploring this alternative.

Conclusion

The Unified Pension Scheme is a major policy change aimed at giving more financial security to central government employees under the NPS. It especially benefits those with long service periods by offering them a fixed and reliable retirement income. As more states explore its adoption, UPS could become a popular retirement choice among government staff.

Read more on: Unified Pension Scheme from April 1: Check Who Can Get 50% Guaranteed Pension?

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