Shillong, April 21: The teaches of the deficit grant-in-aid schools and colleges of the state have rejected the pension scheme of 2026.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, the representatives of the associations of such schools and colleges said that the recently notified Meghalaya Non-Government Schools and Colleges Employees Centralised Fund Scheme, 2026, is not acceptable.
While acknowledging Chief Minister’s announcement on April 1 regarding the extension of the pension scheme in recognition of the contributions of teachers, particularly in shaping young minds, the teachers said this reflects a commitment towards the welfare of educators and the education sector at large.
“However, as stakeholders, we express our serious concern regarding the notified Pension Scheme, 2026. Following detailed discussions across various associations, the scheme was unanimously rejected, and our objections were formally submitted to the government”, they said.
The earlier draft scheme of 2023 was discussed extensively with stakeholders and placed on record and it is materially different from the pension scheme of 2026 that has now been notified.
“Despite unanimous rejection, and while the matter remains sub judice, the government has proceeded with steps towards implementation of new pension. Notifications have been issued directing stakeholders, including both retired and serving employees, to open accounts under the new system. This raises serious concerns, as such actions may effectively compel stakeholders into the Pension Scheme 2026 and could irreversibly alter their pension rights”, the teachers said.
They submitted that stakeholders who joined service prior to April 2010 are governed by the provisions of the Meghalaya Non-Government Schools and Colleges Employees Centralised Provident Fund Act, 1969. Those appointed thereafter will fall under the National Pension System, as notified earlier in May 2023 and in the official Gazette of February 2025. The pension scheme of 2026 fails to maintain this crucial legal distinction.
“We also place on record that stakeholders had, in good faith, complied with earlier government directions and transferred their funds to the Central Provident Fund at the SBI Laitumkhrah Branch with the expectation of securing fair and lawful retirement benefits”, they said.
The teachers expressed faith in the judicial process and hoped that justice will be delivered.
“We urge the government to act in consonance with established legal provisions and in the best interests of teachers and non teaching staff, particularly retired employees who are currently facing financial hardship after years of dedicated service”, they said.
