SHILLONG, APR 20: Stakeholders of various deficit grant-in-aid schools and colleges in the state have unanimously rejected the Meghalaya Non-Government Schools and Colleges Employees Centralised Fund Scheme, 2026, urging the government to act in line with established legal provisions and in the best interests of teachers and non-teaching staff, particularly retired employees facing financial hardship.
Addressing media persons on Tuesday, President of the Khasi Jaintia Deficit School Teachers Association (KJDSTA) Bosswell Pala said, “…we acknowledge and appreciate the Chief Minister’s announcement on April 1st regarding the extension of a pension scheme in recognition of the contributions of teachers, particularly in shaping young minds. 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,” he added.
Pala pointed out that the current scheme differs from an earlier draft.
“It is important to clarify that the earlier draft Scheme of 2023—discussed extensively with stakeholders and placed on record before the Court—is materially different from the Pension Scheme of 2026 that has now been notified,” he said.
He said implementation steps were being taken despite opposition and pending litigation.
“Despite this unanimous rejection, and while the matter remains sub judice, the Government has proceeded with steps towards implementation. Notifications have been issued directing stakeholders, including both retired and serving employees, to open PRAN accounts under the new system,” Pala said.
“This raises serious concerns, as such actions may effectively compel stakeholders into the Pension Scheme 2026 and could irreversibly alter their pension rights,” he added.
Pala stressed that existing laws already govern employees based on date of appointment.
“We respectfully submit 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 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,” he said.
He added that stakeholders had earlier complied with directives in good faith.
“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 (relevant details to be shared), with the expectation of securing fair and lawful retirement benefits,” Pala said.
“We reiterate our complete faith in the judicial process and remain hopeful 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,” he said.
