NNPSGSEF observes state-wide Black Day opposing NPS and UPS, demands restoration of Old Pension Scheme for secure retirement.
Share
KOHIMA — The Nagaland National Pension System Government Service Employees Forum (NNPSGSEF) on Wednesday observed a state-wide Black Day, intensifying its demand for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
State president Avizo Nienu informed that government employees covered under the National Pension System (NPS) participated across Nagaland by wearing black badges, expressing resentment against both NPS and the Unified Pension System (UPS).
He contended that under NPS and UPS, pension returns remain uncertain as the government does not guarantee a fixed post-retirement income, placing financial risk entirely on employees. He added that returns may not keep pace with inflation, affecting long-term savings.
Nienu also expressed concern that the introduction of NPS in Nagaland has led to growing apprehension among employees, citing unresolved issues such as uncertain returns, lack of social security, and high management and annuity-related costs.
Also read: NPS contributions, transfers under CAG scan in Nagaland
Nagaland NPS employees threaten agitation over pension row
Meanwhile, referring to recent developments, the NNPSGSEF stated that the Centre introduced the Unified Pension System (UPS) on April 1, 2025, instead of scrapping NPS, describing it as a modified version within the same framework.
It added the Black Day reflected a united expression of dissatisfaction among employees across the state.
Also, the NNPSGSEF central unit, along with its Dimapur district unit, met the commissioner of police, Dimapur, to raise awareness about the movement.
The forum also informed that Dr. Manjeet Singh Patel, national president of the All India NPS Employees Federation (AINPSEF), extended support to the agitation and assured continued efforts toward restoring OPS.
It added that meetings were held with Union Minister of State for Personnel Dr. Jitendra Singh on January 14, 2025, and February 24, 2026, to discuss concerns surrounding NPS and UPS. A high-level expert committee was also constituted by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) in February 2026 to examine these issues.
The NNPSGSEF reaffirmed its commitment to intensify peaceful and democratic protests until its demands are met.
It may be noted that NPS applies to Nagaland state government employees recruited on or after January 1, 2010, with employees contributing 10% of their salary and the state contributing 14%.
However, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), in its Finance Accounts 2024–25, reported that INR 72.75 crore remained untransferred to the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) as of March 31, 2025, overstating the state’s cash balance.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, in its 145th Report (2025–26), also flagged delays and irregularities in NPS implementation, including failure to clear contribution arrears and ensure timely fund transfers.