Uttarakhand Cabinet has approved implementation of Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for state government employees and new Excise Policy 2025. Additionally, the state will provide financial assistance to 45 writers for preservation of literature and culture and introduce 21 new literary awards, including Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan Award.
Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)
The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has been introduced by Central Government as an option under the National Pension System (NPS). It aims to provide assured payouts to government employees after retirement. The scheme will be operational from April 1, 2025.
Key Features of UPS
Assured Pension:
- Pension will be 50% of the employee’s average basic pay over the last 12 months before retirement.
- Employees must complete at least 25 years of service to receive this benefit.
- Those with 10–25 years of service will receive a proportionally reduced pension.
Assured Minimum Pension:
- Employees retiring after at least 10 years of service will receive a minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month.
Assured Family Pension:
- Upon the retiree’s death, their immediate family will be eligible for 60% of the last drawn pension.
Inflation Indexation:
- Dearness relief will be applicable to pensions, linked to the All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers.
Lump Sum Payment at Retirement:
- In addition to gratuity, employees will receive a lump sum amount equal to 1/10th of their monthly salary (Basic Pay + DA) for every completed six months of service.
- This payment will not affect the assured pension amount.
Choice for Employees:
- Employees can choose to continue under NPS.
- However, once an employee opts for UPS, the decision cannot be changed.
Uttarakhand’s New Excise Policy 2025
The Excise Policy 2025 has been introduced with stricter regulations to curb liquor sales near religious places and protect consumer rights.
Key Features of New Excise Policy
Closure of Liquor Shops Near Religious Places:
- The policy bans liquor licenses for outlets near religious sites, keeping in mind public sentiments.
Tighter Regulations on Liquor Sales:
- The sub-shop system and metro liquor sales system have been abolished.
- If a shop overcharges beyond MRP, its license can be canceled.
- MRP regulations will also apply to departmental stores, ensuring consumer protection.
Revenue Growth & Target:
- Excise revenue in Uttarakhand has increased significantly over the past two years.
- A revenue target of ₹5,060 crore has been set for the financial year 2025-26.