The Central Government has opened a special opportunity for employees who are eligible to switch from NPS to Old Pension Scheme (OPS). If you are a central govt employee and concerned about your retirement plans, this is your chance to move back to a confirmed pension system.
Let’s explore who can switch, what documents you require, and step-by-step process to Central Govt Employees How to Switch from NPS to OPS
Why Are Central Govt Employees Switching Back to OPS?
From January 1, 2004, the New Pension Scheme (NPS) has been compulsory for most central government employees. Unlike the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which gives a stable monthly pension for lifetime, NPS is market based, like your retirement money depends on how well the stock market performs.
That is why most employees feel unsure about their future and are planning to move from NPS to Old Pension Scheme for more stable post-retirement income.
Who Can Switch from NPS to Old Pension Scheme in 2025?
Not everyone is authorized to make the switch from NPS to OPS. According to the latest rules from the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), only some categories of central govt employees are allowed.
You can apply to move from NPS to OPS only if:
- You were selected in opposition to a vacancy advertised before December 22, 2003.
- But you joined service on or after January 1, 2004.
- The hold-up or delay in joining was due to administration reasons or legal issues like a stay order from court.
In short, if your job was advertised before NPS started, but you joined after it came into effect, then you could be eligible to move from NPS to OPS.
Documents You Will Need to Switch From NPS to OPS
Make sure that these documents are always ready before you apply:
- Letter of appointment
- Copy of the vacancy advertisement
- Report of joining
- Signed application which is requesting the shift from NPS to OPS
- Service record or service book
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your department if required
Tip: always keep two self-attested copies of all documents to avoid any further delay during the switching process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Central Govt Employees How to Switch from NPS to OPS
If you are eligible for switching process, here is how you can apply before the September 30, 2025 deadline:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Make sure to match your details with the rules. Confirm that your jon was advertised before December 22, 2003 and that you joined after January 1, 2004.
2. Write an Application
Write an official request letter to your department head and mention clearly that you want to switch from NPS to Old Pension Scheme based on the DoPPW circular.
3. Attach All Documents
Add all the required documents listed above along with your application and don’t forget the proof of the job advertisement and letter of your appointment as well.
4. Submit Through the proper Channel
Your department will cross check your request and forward it to the higher authority, like your Ministry’s Pension Department or Head of Department (HoD).
5. Final Approval
After the review process, your department will issue an official order approving your shifting from NPS to OPS.
Make sure that you submit the application long before September 30. 2025 to avoid last-minute problems, which may reject your application.
Important Circulars to Know About
The important guidelines for this process is the DoPPW Office Memorandum (OM):
OM Number 57/04/2019-P$PW(B) dated 3rd March, 2023.
This circular clearly explains who is eligible and who is not, what documents are required, and how to proceed the request step-by-step.
Make sure to ask your department to refer to this order white handling your case. You can also track updates or raise concerns on the CPENGRAMS portal.
Points to Keep in Mind Before Switching from NPS to OPS
- Once your switching application is approval, then your NPS account will be closed permanently.
- The money in your NPS account will be transferred according to the government’s guidelines.
- You can’t go back to NPS after choosing OPS.
- Make sure that your service record and pension details are updated properly.
- Always keep a copy of the final approval order for your future reference.
If you face any delay or problem during the process, you can raise a complaint on CPENGRAMS (Centralized Pension Grievance Redress and Monitoring System), which is the government’s pension grievance platform.
Why the September 30, 2025 Deadline is Critical
The Government of India has clearly declared that September 30, 2025 is the final date of submitting the application form for switching from NPS to OPS. So, this is a one-time chance.
There is no guarantee that it will be extended again. So, if you are eligible and planning to move from NPS to OPS, then it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
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Final Thoughts
Switching from NPS to OPS gives you a peace of mind with a fixed pension, family pension, and better financial stability in retirement. If you fulfill the eligibility criteria for this process, gather your documents, follow the valid procedure, and make sure to submit your application before September 30, 2025.
FAQs
Can any central govt employee switch from NPS to OPS in 2025?
No. Only those whose job was announced before December 22, 2003 but joined after January 1, 2004 are eligible.
What is the last date to switch from NPS to OPS?
The last date is September 30, 2025.
Do I need to close my NPS account after switching to OPS?
Yes. Your NPS account will be closed permanently and the fund will be handled as per DOPPW rules.
Can I switch back to NPS after choosing OPS?
No. Once you choose for the Old Pension Scheme, the decision is considered final.
Where can I file a complaint if my request is delayed?
You can easily raise a complaint on CPENGRAMS (Centralized Pension Grievance Redress and Monitoring System)