A growing clash between academic independence and federal oversight has erupted into a full-scale standoff after the Trump administration announced a freeze on over $2 billion in federal grants to Harvard University. The decision comes after the Ivy League institution firmly rejected a list of sweeping federal demands, including audits of student viewpoints and the dismantling of diversity and inclusion programs. On Monday night, the administration's Joint Task Force to Combat

Timely pension payments are not merely a procedural matter—they are a lifeline for countless retired central and state government employees. These pensions, disbursed through authorised banks, are governed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)'s "Master Circular - Disbursement of Government Pension by Agency Banks". The RBI recently updated the circular, issuing a series of clarifications that aim to make the pension system more transparent, accountable, and senior citizen-fr

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned a 2% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. The decision, announced on March 28, 2025, will benefit more than one crore individuals, including both current employees and retired personnel drawing pensions from the central government. This hike, though modest compared to previous years, will be implemented retrospectively from January 1, 2025. As a resul

The Central Pension Accounting Office (CPAO) has issued fresh guidelines to streamline the pension disbursement process for retirees under the National Pension System (NPS). The new instructions aim to ensure that pensioners receive their dues on time without unnecessary delays. In a memo dated March 12, 2025, the CPAO emphasized the need to follow the same procedural framework as the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to avoid errors. The CPAO’s latest reminder follows an earlier directive issue

The Indian government is reportedly working on a Universal Pension Scheme, a voluntary initiative designed to provide retirement benefits to individuals across all sectors, including those in unorganised employment, traders, and self-employed individuals aged 18 and above. Unlike traditional job-based pension plans, this scheme will not be tied to any specific employment, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals.The Labour Ministry has already initiated discussions on the framewor

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents is expected to make a pivotal decision regarding the next chancellor to lead its vast network of 11 universities and eight state agencies. The board, which is meeting in Houston, could vote on a sole finalist for the position, initiating a mandatory 21-day waiting period before finalizing the appointment. According to sources familiar with the search process, the board has identified five candidates for c

The National Pension Scheme (NPS) is a government-backed retirement savings initiative designed to provide individuals with long-term financial security. With its tax benefits and flexible investment options, NPS is an attractive choice for those looking to systematically build a pension corpus. One of the most convenient ways to contribute to NPS is through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), which allows individuals to invest small amounts regularly, ensuring a d

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched the Smart Pension Plan, designed to provide financial security for retirees through structured annuity payouts. The plan offers a range of annuity options, ensuring flexibility and stability for policyholders looking for a steady income after retirement. With multiple features tailored to meet the needs of individuals at different life stages, the Smart Pension Plan provides long-term financial support.The

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has recently issued 21,885 pension payment orders as part of its ongoing efforts to implement higher pensions under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995. As per Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje's written response in Lok Sabha, a total of 17.48 lakh applications were submitted by pensioners and members seeking to increase their pension by making higher contributions.   The EPF

The National Pension Scheme (NPS) Vatsalya, launched on September 18, 2023, has seen a positive response from Indian parents looking to invest in their children's future. As of November 17, 2023, the scheme has attracted 66,495 subscribers, with Maharashtra leading the pack with 9,219 accounts. Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka follow closely with over 6,500 subscribers each. In total, 18 states have seen over 1,000 accounts opened, demonstrating the scheme’s growing appeal. Th

The TDP government is set to reintegrate and expand the role of volunteers previously active during the YCP administration. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced a significant increase in the honorarium for these volunteers, raising it from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 per month. This move aims to recognize their pivotal role and ensure their continued involvement in government activities. Under the new plan, volunteers will not only handle the distribution of pensions but will