Jaipur – In a strong opposition to the union government’s newly announced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), the Rajasthan Teachers' Union, Siyaram has demanded the full reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). The union criticized the government's decision, arguing that while MPs and MLAs enjoy multiple pensions, employees are being denied even a basic old-age pension, which they claim is unjust.

According to the union, the pension serves as the only source of livelihood for employees after decades of service and significant monthly contributions from their salaries.

The Rajasthan Teachers' Union expressed its dissatisfaction with the UPS, labeling it as a deceptive move by the government. They argue that the scheme is merely a rebranding of the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and does not offer any real benefits over the OPS.

The union stated that the UPS is modeled after Andhra Pradesh's Assured Pension Scheme and is merely an improvement on the NPS, which they find unacceptable. "We want the OPS in its original form," declared the union leaders.

The employees also assert that in central services, the maximum age limit for reserved category individuals is 40 years. Many employees from the reserved category are appointed at the age of 40. As a result, those appointed after April 1, 2025, will retire before completing 25 years of service, at the age of 60. Under the UPS scheme, they will receive a pension of only ₹10,000. Sixty years from now, ₹10,000 will be worth less than the alms given to beggars.

The union accused the central government of using the UPS as a political strategy, attempting to pacify employees with minor concessions in light of the upcoming elections. They believe the government is trying to prevent the growing discontent among employees, which could impact future elections. The union criticized the Finance Minister, who has previously spoken against OPS, describing the current move as an attempt to win back employee support after electoral setbacks.

Comparing the OPS and UPS: Employees Face Major Financial Losses

To highlight the disparities between the OPS and UPS, the union provided examples showing that employees would receive significantly lower pensions under the new scheme. For instance, an employee retiring after 25 years of service under OPS would receive a monthly pension of ₹54,000, while under UPS, the amount would be reduced to ₹37,000. Additionally, UPS requires employees to contribute 10% of their salary, a deduction not present under OPS.

The union emphasized that the UPS is not a viable alternative to the OPS. They argue that while the OPS provided a stable and predictable income in retirement, the UPS introduces uncertainties and reduces the overall pension amount.

The union leaders declared that their struggle for OPS restoration would continue with renewed vigor and intensity. They warned the state government against any attempts to modify the OPS currently in place in Rajasthan, threatening widespread protests if such actions were taken.

The Rajasthan Teachers' Union’s resistance to the UPS is part of a larger movement across the country, as employees and teachers continue to demand the reinstatement of the OPS.