The Old Pension Scheme, a significant benefit for government employees even after retirement, has been reinstated in Himachal Pradesh after a hiatus.
In 2003, the Old Pension Scheme was discontinued in Himachal Pradesh, causing concern among employees.
However, responding to demands, the scheme was reinitiated in 2022 and reinstated as an election promise by the Sukhu government in 2023.
Expansion of Eligibility Criteria
Previously, under the Old Pension Scheme in Himachal Pradesh, employees were required to have a minimum of 10 years of service to qualify. This period initially excluded contract-based service from counting towards pension eligibility.
Now, under revised rules, employees with combined service periods, including contract-based tenure, totaling 10 years or more are eligible for the Old Pension Scheme.
Implementation and Impact
Upon reinstating the scheme, the Sukhu government estimated that over 130,000 retired employees who had not previously benefited from the Old Pension Scheme would now be eligible.
To avail themselves of this benefit, retired employees must opt-in through their department heads within a month of the scheme’s announcement.
The Finance Department has issued a memorandum ensuring that all eligible retirees receive the pension they are entitled to, integrating both contract and regular service periods.
This initiative by the Sukhu government provides crucial financial support to retired employees, ensuring their well-being post-retirement and fulfilling an election promise aimed at welfare and security for retirees in the state.
