Amidst lingering uncertainty over the fate of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) in Rajasthan, the newly elected BJP government is yet to clarify its stance on this issue. The confusion deepens following the release of appointment letters for the positions of Assistant Agricultural Research Officer Chemicals by the Agriculture Commissionerate. Notably, these appointment letters exclusively mention the new pension scheme, leaving ambiguity about the continuation of OPS.
Point two of the appointment letters, explicitly states that the contributory pension scheme for newly appointed officers will align with the Finance Department circulars dated January 29, 2004, and March 13, 2006, implying the exclusion of the benefits associated with the old pension scheme.
Gajendra Singh Rathore, State President of All Rajasthan State Employees Joint Federation, emphasises the need for the government to clearly communicate its stance on the continuation of the old pension scheme. During the Assembly’s Zero Hour, Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully accused the Bhajan Lal government of speculating about the abolition of OPS post the Lok Sabha elections. He expressed concern that such a move would cast a shadow on the future of numerous employees.
