Srinagar, 29 Sept (KNS) : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Additional General Secretary and Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan Tuesday welcomed the decision of the Omar Abdullah-led government to extend the benefit of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to eligible employees appointed against posts advertised or notified prior to December 24, 2009.

In a statement, Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan said that the employee-friendly and sensitive decision taken by the government was highly appreciable, as it addresses a genuine grievance of employees whose recruitment process had commenced before the implementation of the New Pension Scheme. He expressed hope that all eligible employees would avail the one-time option within the period prescribed in the government order.

He said the decision also reflects the fulfilment of the commitments made by NC to the people and government employees. He said the NC had clearly promised in its election manifesto to explore ways and means to restore the Old Pension Scheme. The step taken by the Omar Abdullah-led government is a fulfilment of that commitment and demonstrates that the National Conference manifesto is a practical roadmap for people-oriented and responsible governance.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Chowdry Ramzan said that despite limited powers and impediments, the Omar Abdullah-led government was leaving no stone unturned in providing relief to the people and was fulfilling, one by one, the promises made before the elections. He said that just last week, the government announced six free LPG cylinders annually for 1.72 lakh AAY families. Several other commitments had already been fulfilled, he said, adding that the process would continue.

He said restoration of statehood was essential to enable the government to function without hindrance and take decisions like immediate regularisation of daily wagers and rationalisation of reservations. He reiterated that the National Conference government would continue working towards fulfilling all its commitments and safeguarding the legitimate interests, dignity and social security of the employees of Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)