Important news has emerged for government employees. Pensioners in Jammu and Kashmir are about to receive a significant opportunity. Certain eligible employees under the National Pension System (NPS) in the Union Territory have been given a one-time opportunity to choose the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). However, this facility is not applicable to all NPS employees, and only those who meet certain conditions will be eligible.

According to the government, employees whose recruitment posts or vacancies were advertised or notified before December 24, 2009, but who joined government service on or after January 1, 2010, may be eligible for this option.

Eligible employees must apply for OPS by December 28, 2026. Employees who do not apply within this timeframe will remain under NPS. Importantly, once they choose OPS, they will not be allowed to return to NPS.

Where to apply?
Eligible employees must submit their applications to the relevant DDO (Drawing and Disbursing Officer). The DDO will then forward the application to the relevant HOD or appointing authority. Additionally, the administrative department will review the employee's service and recruitment records. Once the eligibility criteria are met, the necessary order will be issued to implement OPS.

What will happen to the NPS account?
The employee's NPS account will be closed on the first of the month following the month in which the order to join OPS is issued. After that, the employee will be required to contribute to the GPF (General Provident Fund).

PC: Observer research foundation