SHILLONG : Stakeholders of various deficit grant-in-aid schools and colleges across Meghalaya have unanimously rejected the Meghalaya Non-Government Schools and Colleges Employees Centralised Fund Scheme, 2026, and urged the state government to act in accordance with existing legal provisions while safeguarding the interests of teachers and non-teaching staff, especially retired employees facing financial hardship.
Addressing media persons, President of the Khasi Jaintia Deficit School Teachers Association (KJDSTA), Bosswell Pala, stated that while the association appreciates the Chief Minister’s April 1 announcement to extend pension benefits in recognition of teachers’ contributions, serious concerns remain over the notified Pension Scheme 2026.
He informed that after detailed discussions among various stakeholders, the scheme was unanimously rejected and formal objections were submitted to the government.
Pala pointed out that the current 2026 scheme significantly differs from the earlier draft of 2023, which had been widely discussed with stakeholders and even placed on record before the court. Despite this, the government has proceeded with implementation steps while the matter remains sub judice.
He further revealed that official notifications have already been issued directing both retired and serving employees to open PRAN accounts under the new system, raising fears that stakeholders may be compelled into the scheme, potentially affecting their pension rights permanently.
Highlighting legal concerns, Pala stated that employees appointed prior to April 2010 are governed by the Meghalaya Non-Government Schools and Colleges Employees Centralised Provident Fund Act, 1969, while those appointed after fall under the National Pension System as notified earlier. However, the new scheme fails to maintain this critical distinction.
He also noted that stakeholders had earlier complied in good faith with government directives by transferring their funds to the Central Provident Fund at SBI Laitumkhrah, expecting fair and lawful retirement benefits.
Reaffirming faith in the judicial process, Pala expressed hope that justice will prevail and urged the government to act in the best interests of educators who have served for decades and are now facing financial difficulties.