Decision on Old Pension Scheme Will Be Taken at the Right Time: TN Finance Minister Thennarasu

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu on Tuesday assured that the state government remains attentive to the demands of its employees and teachers, including the long-standing call to revert to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). He stated that a decision would be made at an appropriate time in consultation with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.

Responding to a question raised by AIADMK MLA Maragatham Kumaravel in the State Assembly, Thennarasu emphasized the Chief Minister’s concern for government employees' welfare. “Several announcements benefiting government employees were included in the 2025–26 budget. Regarding the pension scheme, a committee headed by Rural Development Secretary Gagandeep Singh Bedi has been formed to study the matter,” he said.

The minister clarified that the committee has been given clear terms of reference and a submission deadline, and that representatives from employee unions have already shared their views with the panel. “We are committed to a thoughtful approach. Decisions will be taken in a timely manner after consulting the Chief Minister,” he added.

On the ground, pressure from government staff continues to mount. Various groups of government employees and teachers, led by the JACTTO-GEO coalition, staged demonstrations across Tamil Nadu on Tuesday, reiterating their demand for restoration of the old pension scheme. The coalition has warned that if the government does not meet their demands by April 30, they will intensify their protests.

The old pension scheme has been a persistent point of contention, with many employees arguing that the current contributory scheme falls short of ensuring post-retirement security. As the April 30 deadline approaches, the government is expected to weigh its options carefully amidst growing agitation.

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