MPUAT :Pensioner Plight: Urgent Call

In light of the potential for agricultural development and the significant contributions made by agricultural scientists in research, extension, and education, five agricultural universities were established in Rajasthan. Employees and scientists across all agricultural universities have played crucial roles in the state's development through their commendable work in their respective domains.

However, it is important to highlight that in the fiscal year 1990-91, in compliance with the State Government's orders, pension options were chosen by all employees. For those who did not make a choice, the pension option was also considered as per government instructions. Subsequently, regular pensions were being paid to retiring employees from the university's pension fund and the state government's allocation. However, over the last decade, there has been a decrease in the state government's allocated funds, coupled with increases in pay scales and the number of employees and scientists in the universities. Consequently, pensioners are experiencing irregular pension payments due to the reduction in funds caused by a drastic decrease in the number of employees.

It should be noted that universities, being state-funded institutions, conduct teaching, research, and extension education, utilizing agricultural farms for these purposes. However, the low number of students leads to minimal income from various sources, insufficient to cover the university's activities, including pension payments.

After bringing this issue to the government's attention, the government transferred university lands to the city for public interest. A temporary arrangement was made to pay pensions from the proceeds of land sales through a development trust. Currently, the Urban Development Trust provides only Rs 5 crore per month to the university for pension payments, as per the state government's instructions.

Recently, the implementation of the old pension scheme by the previous government has added additional burden to the university. While this system could sustain pension payments for a few more years, the new burden poses a challenge. It is anticipated that the current system will only suffice for the next two years, after which pension payment problems may resurface, as neither the university can collect sufficient funds nor is the state government providing additional funding.

This situation threatens the dignity of pensioners who rightfully deserve regular pension payments after years of service. Despite government assurances, the issue remains unresolved, causing distress among pensioners.

The Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur Pensioners Welfare Society has been urging the university to address these issues through discussions and letters. However, despite assurances, no concrete action has been taken, leaving pensioners frustrated and aggrieved.

It is concerning that despite numerous appeals, the university administration has not issued instructions on various issues affecting pensioners, including the payment of dearness allowance, arrears of the 7th pay scale, medical bills, recognition of the Pensioners Welfare Society, release of revised PPOs, and utilizing university savings for pension payments.

In conclusion, all pensioners are facing significant challenges, and the university administration must take proactive steps to address their concerns. It is imperative that the government and university administration take prompt action to ensure that pensioners receive their rightful dues and live with dignity post-retirement.