The decision had not been applied to teachers and non-teaching staff in semi-government and aided institutions since the matter was sub judice.

Mumbai: Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister on Monday announced that the state government will take a decision within three months regarding the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for teachers.

During the Question Hour, Ajit Pawar stated that teaching and non-teaching staff employed in semi-government and aided institutions in Maharashtra, who joined after the issuance of the notification, would receive relief.

Pawar addressed inquiries from BJP members Sanjay Kelkar, Ashish Shelar, and Congress member Balasaheb Thorat. According to the government’s decision, individuals choosing the OPS will contribute 10 percent, with the state adding 14 percent.

Pawar stated that the government has recently resolved to offer the OPS option to government employees whose positions were advertised prior to November 1, 2005, yet who commenced their service subsequent to that date.

The decision allows the application of the Maharashtra Civil Services Retirement Rules 1982, Maharashtra Civil Services Retirement Pension Scheme 1984, and General Provident Fund Rules for the management of retirement funds, specifically for government officials and employees within the Central government’s jurisdiction.

Pawar informed the House that the decision had not been applied to teachers and non-teaching staff in semi-government and aided institutions since the matter was sub judice. Ajit Pawar noted that in light of the country’s and states’ economic conditions, the Central government opted to discontinue the Old Pension Scheme and introduce a new one.

Following this, numerous state government officials and employees have called for the implementation of the OPS, receiving a positive response from the Central government. Additionally, state governments have requested details from the Central government on this issue. Ajit Pawar mentioned that the state government has established a committee of retired officials to comprehend their demands.

“Discussions have been held with the associations of government officials and employees in this regard. A request was made in the Nagpur winter session regarding the state government’s stance on implementing the old pension.

“Some states have also sought information regarding decisions taken in this regard. The current government is pro-employee, so they will not be left in the lurch. Proper justice will be given in this matter,” Pawar assured.

(With IANS inputs)