What is Unified Pension Scheme?
The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is a central government pension reform approved by Cabinet in August 2024 and implemented from April 1, 2025. It offers central government employees currently under NPS (National Pension System) an assured pension of 50% of the average basic pay drawn over the last 12 months before superannuation, after completing 25 years of service. A minimum pension of ₹10,000/month is guaranteed for those with 10+ years of service. The family pension is 60% of the employee's pension amount. Pension is indexed to inflation through Dearness Allowance.
Unified Pension Scheme — Quick Overview
| Scheme Name | Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) — 50% Assured Pension for Central Govt Employees |
| Launched By | Government of India |
| Launch Year | 2025 |
| Benefit | 50% of last 12-month average basic pay as assured monthly pension (after 25 years); minimum ₹10,000/month (after 10 years) |
| Category | Finance |
| Last Verified | 15 May 2026 |
| Official Portal | https://pfrda.org.in |
Benefits of Unified Pension Scheme
50% of last 12-month average basic pay as assured monthly pension (after 25 years); minimum ₹10,000/month (after 10 years)
Who is Eligible for Unified Pension Scheme?
- ✓Central government employee who joined service on or after January 1, 2004 (covered under NPS)
- ✓In service as on April 1, 2025
- ✓Must opt-in to UPS (one-time irrevocable choice)
- ✓Minimum 10 years of service for minimum ₹10,000 pension
- ✓25 years of service for full 50% assured pension
Documents Required for Unified Pension Scheme
How to Apply for Unified Pension Scheme Online?
- 1Only central government employees already under NPS (joined on or after 1 January 2004) can opt in — not open to the public.
- 2Submit the one-time irrevocable opt-in choice for UPS, following guidance at pfrda.org.in.
- 3Provide your NPS PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) to link existing NPS contributions to UPS.
- 4Submit service records and appointment order to verify years of service against the 10-year and 25-year thresholds.
- 5Provide Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, and bank account details for pension disbursal.
- 6File a family declaration naming nominees eligible for the 60% family pension.
- 7On superannuation, the assured pension — 50% of last 12-month average basic pay, or minimum ₹10,000/month — is credited monthly, indexed to Dearness Allowance.
Official Government Portal
Submit your application yourself on pfrda.org.in; it costs nothing. Treat anyone demanding money to "get you approved" as a scam.
🔗Apply on pfrda.org.in