Several non-BJP-ruled states have decided to revert to the DA-linked Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and also employee organisations in some other states have raised demand for the same.Briefing media, Cabinet Secretary-designate TV Somanathan said the new scheme is applicable from April 1, 2025.The benefits of the Unified Pension Scheme are applicable for those retired and retiring till March 31, 2025, with arrears, he added.Vigyan DharaThe Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also approved the continuation of three umbrella schemes of the Department of Science and Technology, merged into a unified central sector scheme called ‘Vigyan Dhara’.The proposed outlay for Vigyan Dhara is Rs 10,579 crore during the 15th Finance Commission period from 2021-22 to 2025-26, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told reporters.The scheme has three broad components – science and technology institutional and human capacity building; research and development; and innovation, technology development and deployment.BioE3The Cabinet also approved the proposal of ‘BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy for Fostering High Performance Biomanufacturing’ of the Department of Biotechnology.This policy aims to bring in innovation-driven support to R&D and entrepreneurship across thematic sectors.(With inputs from PTI)
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