The Central Government has extended the application deadline for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) till September 30, 2025, giving eligible employees more time to opt in. This scheme is designed for Central Government employees who are currently covered under the National Pension System (NPS) but prefer an assured pension plan.
✅ What is the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?The UPS is a voluntary pension plan launched by the government in response to demands from employees seeking a return to an assured pension model.
Voluntary: Employees under NPS can choose to shift to UPS.
Assured Pension: Under UPS, the pension is guaranteed based on the employee's last drawn salary.
Market Risk-Free: Unlike NPS, UPS doesn't depend on market performance.
| Return Type | Market-linked | Assured Pension |
| Risk Level | Variable (depends on equities) | Risk-free |
| Pension Amount | Depends on corpus accumulated | Based on last drawn salary |
| Flexibility | Investment options available | Fixed format |
| Government Role | Partial contribution | Full pension assurance |
📅 Who Can Apply?💡 NPS was introduced on January 1, 2004, and applies to all Central Government employees joining after that date. However, UPS offers an alternative to those seeking stable post-retirement income.
Employees who joined on or after April 1, 2025, are eligible to opt for UPS.
Current Central Government employees under NPS can voluntarily switch to UPS.
Employees who prefer a risk-free, assured pension can benefit from this scheme.
Mass demand from employees who were dissatisfied with the unpredictability of NPS.
Aimed at providing financial security post-retirement.
Mirrors the old pension system (pre-2004) that guaranteed a steady monthly pension.
You can apply in two ways – Online or Offline.
🔹 Online Application:Visit the official portal: https://enps.nsdl.com/eNPS/NationalPensionSystem.html
Login with your credentials and follow the process to opt into UPS.
Download Form A2 from: https://www.npscra.nsdl.co.in/ups.php
Fill out the form manually.
Submit it to your department’s nodal office.
The previous deadline to apply for UPS was July 31, 2025, which has now been extended to September 30, 2025.
⚠️ Important NotesSwitching from NPS to UPS is optional, not mandatory.
Employees who are satisfied with the NPS can continue under the existing system.
Once opted into UPS, the switch is generally not reversible.
The Unified Pension Scheme offers a golden opportunity for Central Government employees who want a stable, risk-free retirement plan. With the extended deadline, employees now have more time to consider their options and apply accordingly. Make sure to evaluate your long-term goals and risk appetite before deciding between NPS and UPS.
