Coverage under CCS Pension Rules (OPS) in place of NPS of those Central Government employees who were recruited on or before 22.12.2003

Clarification on Coverage under Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules for Central Government Employees

The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, issued an Office Memorandum dated 14/02/2024, addressing the coverage under the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, in lieu of the National Pension System (NPS), for Central Government employees recruited on or before 22.12.2003. The memorandum serves to clarify certain aspects concerning representations and queries received regarding the matter.

Download Coverage under Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, in place of National Pension System (NPS), of those Central Government employees who were recruited against the posts/vacancies advertised/notified for recruitment, on or before 22.12.2003 in PDF

Background and Context:

The memorandum refers to a previous letter (No. 25-08/2020-SPG) dated 09.03.2023, which invited options from officers of the Indian Postal Service, Group ‘A,’ for transitioning from the National Pension System to the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 (now 2021). It also urged Circle/ Divisional/ Unit heads to circulate the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoP&PW) OM dated 03.03.2023.

Clarification on Representations:

The memorandum highlights that the department has received numerous representations seeking clarification on the DoP&PW OM dated 03.03.2023. These representations come from various units, staff unions, associations, and even members of the public. However, it emphasizes that providing clarifications on the DoP&PW OM falls outside the purview of the department's SPG-I Section. Additionally, as the cadre controlling unit of Indian Postal Service, Group ‘A’ officers, the section is not authorized to address representations related to Group ‘B’ & ‘C’ officials/staff.

Action Required:

In light of the above, all Circle/ Regional/ Divisional/ Unit heads/ PAOs are urged to address any such representations at their respective levels, adhering to the conditions outlined in the DoP&PW OM dated 03.03.2023. Any further clarifications required should be directly sought from the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare through the respective Cadre Controlling Units/Authorities.

This memorandum serves to streamline the process of handling representations and queries related to the transition from NPS to CCS (Pension) Rules for Central Government employees recruited before December 22, 2003. It underscores the importance of adhering to the guidelines laid down by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare and directs the appropriate channels for seeking further clarification.

By ensuring proper dissemination of information and appropriate handling of representations, the department aims to facilitate a smooth transition process for eligible employees while upholding transparency and accountability in administrative procedures.