The National Pension System (NPS) now offers more flexibility than before. Regulators have cleared a path for non-government subscribers to invest up to 100 percent in equities from 1 October 2025 through a new “Multiple Scheme Framework,” all under the same PRAN. This is a big shift from earlier equity caps and gives long-horizon savers a higher-growth option, with higher risk.
Why this matters for your risk and returns
More equity can mean better long-term growth, but also bigger ups and downs in the short term. Younger savers with decades to go can consider a higher equity mix. Those closer to retirement may prefer a balanced approach so that market falls do not hurt withdrawals. The core point is that NPS remains a market-linked plan regulated by PFRDA, not a guaranteed-return scheme.
Withdrawals are being rethought
Alongside the higher equity option, policy work is underway on making withdrawals more practical. Draft ideas being discussed include phased, inflation-aware withdrawals before buying an annuity later, or splitting the corpus into a safe base and a growth pool. These models signal the direction of travel, but they are proposals until the regulator finalises rules. Treat them as likely, not done.
Tax alignment you should know about
Recent discussions around tax treatment aim to keep NPS competitive with other pension schemes, including the Unified Pension Scheme for government employees. The intent is to reduce arbitrage on lump sums and premature exits and make choices clearer. Watch for the final wording in Finance Ministry notifications before changing your plan.
What you should do now
First, check your asset mix. If you were stuck below earlier equity caps and you have a long runway, you can plan a gradual shift higher after the 1 October 2025 change begins. If you are nearing retirement, review how much volatility you can tolerate and whether you need to build a steadier income path. Finally, keep an eye on the final withdrawal rules so your exit plan matches the new framework when it arrives.
The bottom line
NPS is becoming more flexible and more focused on turning your corpus into income. That is good news, but it also means you must make conscious choices about risk, allocation, and withdrawals. Revisit your NPS settings once the 100 percent equity option goes live and update your exit plan when the regulator finalises the new drawdown rules. Use official sources (PFRDA/NPS Trust) for the last word on what is in force.
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