Will Karnataka Implement the Old Pension Scheme? CM Siddaramaiah Speaks
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Synopsis
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's promise to implement the Old Pension Scheme in Karnataka raises high hopes among state employees. With significant discussions planned and an assurance of job regularization for thousands, the government's commitment to public welfare is evident. This initiative not only aims to restore trust but also marks a historic approach to pension reforms in the state.
Key Takeaways
- The Karnataka government is considering the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
- CM Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of fulfilling promises made in the party manifesto.
- Plans to fill 35,000 vacancies in the Power Transmission Department have been announced.
- There is a commitment to regularize the employment of contract civic workers.
- The government aims to provide seven hours of daytime power supply to farmers.
Bengaluru, June 18 (NationPress) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed on Wednesday that the state government plans to deliberate and take necessary measures to implement the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) in Karnataka.
He made this announcement during the inauguration of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Employees’ Association and the launch of the commemorative publication 'Vajra Jyoti'.
“Our government stands by its commitments. We will assess your concerns and respond accordingly. The New Pension Scheme (NPS) was introduced by the Central Government, but our party manifesto pledged to restore the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). We will engage in discussions and take the necessary actions,” the Congress leader reassured.
CM Siddaramaiah also declared that 35,000 vacant positions in the Power Transmission Department would be filled gradually, and the employment status of 532 contract workers in the department would be regularized.
Highlighting Karnataka’s historical significance in the power sector, CM Siddaramaiah stated, “The first electricity generation in Asia commenced in Karnataka in 1902. Bengaluru established its first power distribution company in 1905, and the Mysore Palace received electricity for the first time in 1908. Today, Karnataka proudly generates 34,000 megawatts of power.”
He further explained, “Our self-sufficiency in food production is significantly linked to our ability to generate electricity.”
CM Siddaramaiah expressed that the Congress-led government is determined to provide seven hours of daytime power supply to farmers for their agricultural pump sets. “We are working towards this target. Once our production capacity reaches 60,000 megawatts, this will be achievable. It’s essential to recognize that electricity is a crucial element of our economy,” he emphasized.
During the event, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar assured, “As long as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and I are in office, we will not permit the privatization of Electricity Supply Companies (ESCOMs) in the state.”
He added, “When I took on the role of Energy Minister, the BJP was in power at the Centre. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, ESCOMs were privatized. I was also urged to do the same in Bengaluru. At that point, I asserted that our staff, engineers, and management Board are capable of operating ESCOMs effectively. As long as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and I are in leadership, ESCOMs will remain public in Karnataka.”
“Your concerns are being addressed. The Old Pension Scheme is part of our manifesto, so you need not worry,” Deputy CM Shivakumar emphasized.
“When I assumed my position in the department, transmission losses were approximately 19–20 percent. We have successfully reduced this to 10 percent, setting a benchmark for the entire nation. In numerous other states, losses still hover around 17–18 percent.
“Thanks to your collective efforts, the Energy Department has become more robust. The current Energy Minister, K.J. George, is leading with remarkable transparency and efficiency. We have made several transformative decisions in the past,” Shivakumar noted.
“When it came to promotions earlier, I made decisions within just one day. Whenever a Congress government takes power, it prioritizes your welfare. Remember this — Chief Engineers in KPTCL and ESCOMs earn the same salary as an IPS officer. Keep your trust and affection with us,” Shivakumar concluded.
Energy Minister K.J. George on Wednesday affirmed that the state government completely supports the KPCTL Employees’ Association, acknowledging its commitment to facilitating the successful execution of pro-people initiatives throughout Karnataka.
Point of View
The announcement by CM Siddaramaiah to consider the Old Pension Scheme resonates with a broader conversation on employee welfare and government accountability. As the nation evolves, such commitments from state leaders can influence public trust and set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country. The focus on transparency and efficiency in governance is crucial for sustainable development.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)?
The Old Pension Scheme (OPS) is a retirement benefit plan that offers a fixed monthly pension to government employees based on their last drawn salary, ensuring financial security post-retirement.
How will the implementation of OPS affect current employees?
The implementation of OPS is expected to restore benefits for current employees, providing them with a more secure and predictable financial future after retirement.
What are the government's plans regarding employment in the Power Transmission Department?
The government plans to fill 35,000 vacant positions in the Power Transmission Department and regularize the employment status of contract workers.
What has been the historical significance of Karnataka in the power sector?
Karnataka holds a significant historical role in the power sector, being the first region in Asia to produce electricity, beginning in 1902.
Will there be any changes to ESCOMs under the current government?
The current government, led by CM Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar, has assured that there will be no privatization of Electricity Supply Companies (ESCOMs) in Karnataka.
