NPS to grow over 30% in FY26, says PFRDA chief Ramann

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) Chairman Sivasubramanian Ramann, in an interview with Harsh Kumar in New Delhi, says the regulator is exploring ways to effectively reach the rural segment.

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He says the proposal to implement pension sakhis, suggested by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last week, is both practical and well-tested. Implementation, he added, would involve engaging self-help group (SHG) networks and identifying leaders within these groups. Ramann also spoke about the challenges ahead and shares insights into the National Pension System (NPS) and the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). Edited excerpts:

· The Pension Sakhi model, inspired by bima sakhis, is a very important initiative. We've been exploring ways to effectively reach the rural segment, and this proposal is both practical and tested. Implementation would involve engaging SHG networks and identifying leaders within these groups - each group typically has a champion or key member. Moreover, the Lakhpati Didi concept can be leveraged.