What is the NPS Vatsalya Scheme? 1.3 Lakh Minors Enrolled for Early Retirement

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 1.3 lakh minors enrolled in NPS Vatsalya Scheme.
- Encourages early retirement savings for children.
- Tax benefits available under Section 80CCD (1B).
- Accessible through Points of Presence and online platforms.
- Contributions can start from Rs 1,000 annually.
New Delhi, Aug 12 (NationPress) The Union government has announced that 1.3 lakh minors have enrolled for early retirement under the NPS Vatsalya Scheme. This information was shared in Parliament during a written statement by the Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, revealing that 130,000 minor subscribers have registered from September of the previous year up to August 3.
The NPS Vatsalya Yojana, officially known as the National Pension System Vatsalya, is an initiative aimed at providing retirement savings options for minor children in India.
Minister Chaudhary emphasized that “NPS-Vatsalya fosters inter-generational equity and financial stability by promoting early savings for children while cultivating a culture of retirement planning throughout generations.”
Under the previous tax regime, parents or guardians contributing to the NPS-Vatsalya can now benefit from an income tax deduction under Section 80CCD (1B), allowing up to Rs 50,000 in contributions starting from April 1.
This scheme is facilitated through Points of Presence (PoPs), which include bank branches and non-bank entities regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). The extensive network ensures comprehensive coverage and accessibility across India, as noted by the Minister. Additionally, the NPS-Vatsalya account can now be opened online through a platform provided by the NPS Trust, enhancing convenience.
Launched on September 18, 2024, the NPS-Vatsalya Scheme aims to develop a fully pensioned society, allowing parents or guardians to contribute a minimum of Rs 1,000 annually without a maximum cap for their minor subscribers.
Once the subscriber reaches adulthood, their account can be effortlessly transitioned into an NPS account.
A June survey by Grant Thornton Bharat indicated that younger Indians, particularly those aged 25 and under, are leaning towards early retirement, with 43 percent of them aiming to retire between 45 and 55 years. The survey also revealed that over half of the respondents (55 percent) anticipate a monthly pension exceeding Rs 1 lakh, yet only 11 percent believe their current investments will suffice to achieve these goals.