UDF government unlikely to implement assured pension scheme; changes expected in participatory pension plan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The UDF government is unlikely to implement the assured pension scheme introduced by the previous LDF government. Instead, the government has announced plans to make changes to the existing participatory pension scheme.

In several states that follow the participatory pension system, the government contribution is 14 percent. Under the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) introduced by the central government, the government contribution is 18 percent. In this backdrop, the government is considering increasing its contribution and introducing a minimum participatory pension scheme.

Government to address MEDISEP complaints

The government has assured that it will resolve complaints raised by employees regarding MEDISEP, the health insurance scheme for government employees and pensioners. Several hospitals have been refusing MEDISEP treatments, stating that the treatment package rates fixed by the insurance company do not match the actual cost of medical procedures.

If both members of a family are government employees and enrolled in MEDISEP, premiums are deducted from both employees. However, there is still no clarity on whether the government will provide its contribution to the scheme or allow employees who are unwilling to join the scheme to opt out.

Salary and pension revision may increase financial burden
The government may have to take on additional financial responsibility if the salary and pension revision for employees, which was scheduled from July 1, 2024, is implemented and leave surrender benefits are restored.

Commission to study formation of new districts
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said that a commission will be appointed to study the need for creating new districts and taluks in the state for better administration.

Several organisations have demanded the division of Malappuram district, which has a population of more than 41 lakh, and the creation of a new district with Tirur as its centre. Another demand is to create a new district by including areas such as Muvattupuzha, Thodupuzha and the Low Range region. With the announcement of the budget, the commission will be appointed only after discussions within the UDF and the cabinet meeting.