Chennai, Jan 4 (NationPress) The allies of the ruling DMK have expressed their approval of the Tamil Nadu government’s initiative to launch the Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme (TAPS), labeling it a significant reform that meets a long-overdue demand from government employees and educators, thereby restoring dignity in retirement.

Leaders from various parties allied with the DMK emphasized that the announcement made by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin symbolizes the conclusion of a struggle that has lasted nearly two decades. They noted that, although the scheme requires a considerable fiscal commitment, it demonstrates the state’s determination to fulfill its electoral promises and uphold social security.

The president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, K. Selvaperunthagai, stated that the launch of TAPS marks the end of a 20-year advocacy by employee and teacher associations.

While recognizing that the initiative will increase the fiscal responsibilities of the state, he asserted that the government’s choice reflects its political resolve and reliability in keeping commitments to the workforce.

He mentioned that employee and teacher organizations have largely embraced this decision. Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol Thirumavalavan noted that TAPS would offer essential relief to government employees who have been seeking pension security post-retirement.

He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for positively addressing a long-standing and vital demand. P. Shanmugam, State secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), mentioned that the scheme significantly reinstates the core elements of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which employees have fought for over the years.

Selvaperunthagai called on the state government to swiftly issue the Government Order (GO) and gradually address other outstanding demands of staff and teachers.

M. Veerapandian, CPI State secretary, remarked that the decision honors the DMK’s promise from the 2021 Assembly elections and reaffirms the principle of pension as a crucial social security commitment.

He highlighted the government’s willingness to take on significant fiscal responsibilities, including provisions like enhanced family pensions, asserting that the scheme exemplifies social justice-oriented governance.

According to allies, TAPS is projected to benefit approximately nine lakh employees, teachers, and their families, ensuring financial security and dignity after retirement while reinforcing the state’s commitment to welfare-centric public policy.