The regulation provides a detailed framework for the implementation of the UPS (refer to the infographic).
Key Highlights of the Regulation
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Finance
- Applicability: Three categories of central government employees can opt-in (once opted for UPS, the decision is final and irreversible):
- Existing NPS employees as on April 1, 2025.
- Recruits joining on or after April 1, 2025.
- Retired NPS employees (retired on or before March 31, 2025) or their legally wedded spouses (in case of demise of subscribers).
- Service Duration Eligibility for UPS Benefits
- Superannuation: Available after 10 years of service, payable from the retirement date.
- Voluntary Retirement: Requires 25 years of service, payout starts from the notional superannuation date.
- Exclusions: No benefits for removed, dismissed, or resigned employees.
- Proportionate Payout: If service is 10 to 25 years, a reduced pension is provided.
- Investment & Fund Management
- Individual Corpus: Employees can choose investment patterns and pension funds.
- Pool Corpus: Managed by government-approved pension funds, audited annually.