Right Decision at Right Time: What Tamil Nadu said about Old Pension Scheme

On April 22, 2025, Tamil Nadu’s Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu addressed the ongoing demand from government employees to reinstate the Old Pension Scheme. He stated that the State government would make a “well-thought-out decision at the right time.”

During the Question Hour in the State Assembly, Mr. Thennarasu responded to a question from AIADMK legislator K. Maragatham Kumaravel (from Madurantakam). She asked whether the State government would consider bringing back the Old Pension Scheme, a request that has been voiced by a large number of government employees.

In his reply, Mr. Thennarasu reassured that both the government and Chief Minister are fully aware of the employees’ demands. He said, “The government and the Chief Minister have carefully considered all of the demands. I will have further discussions with the Chief Minister and consult the committee, and the government will make the right decision at the appropriate time.”

The Minister also reminded the Assembly that a committee, led by IAS officer Gagandeep Singh Bedi, had already been formed to look into the matter. He added that the committee’s Terms of Reference had been clearly defined. Many government employee and teacher associations have submitted their requests and concerns to the committee.

Furthermore, Mr. Thennarasu highlighted that both he and the Minister for Public Works had held discussions with these associations. He emphasized that the Chief Minister is deeply concerned about the welfare of government employees, and the government is taking their demands seriously.

The Finance Minister also mentioned that he had already addressed certain issues concerning government employees in his Budget speech for the financial year 2025-26, underscoring the government’s commitment to their welfare.