Pension options: How govt employees can subscribe to both UPS, NPS models for better pension benefits?

Central government employees now have official confirmation that they may maintain accounts in both the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) and the National Pension System (NPS). According to a clarification by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), this dual participation is permitted if the NPS account is opened voluntarily under the All Citizen Model. This update follows the government's decision to extend the deadline for employees to opt into the UPS until 30 November 2025, aiming to provide enhanced pension benefits and broader investment options. Advertisement

The PFRDA addressed a frequently asked question regarding dual scheme participation: "Yes, UPS Subscriber may, in addition to his UPS account, have additional account under NPS (Tier I and Tier II) on a volu