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New Pension Scheme


Subscriber Registration details till  April 29 2023  for FA And CAO, Central Railway, Mumbai of
Railways Accounting Formation under Central Government

INTRODUCTION TO NEW PENSION SCHEME

All employees who have joined Railways on or after 1.1.2004 come under the purview of the New Pension scheme. The Ministry of Finance has appointed   PFDRA i.e Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority to regulate the New Pension Scheme.

There are basically two entities under this scheme.

ØThe Central Record Keeping Agency (CRA) which maintains the records of the employees and

ØThe Trustee Bank

Presently NSDL i.e. (National Securities Depositories Limited) is appointed as the CRA and the Axiss Bank as the Trustee bank.

The Scheme is segregated into Tier-I and Tier-II. The operation Tier-I is done by Railway Administration and Tier-II is operated directly by the subscriber and the POP i.e Point of Presence, which are nominated Banks appointed by PFDRA.

Under Tier-I, 10 % of the employees (Basic Pay + Grade Pay+ DA) is recovered under employee subscription and an equal amount is contributed by the government every month. The details of the employee and government contribution are uploaded each month to NSDL and the amount is remitted to the trustee bank.

The amount remitted is thereafter invested into various schemes as decided by PFDRA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority). Presently, no amount under Tier-I, can be withdrawn by the employee, except on superannuation on death in terms of Railway Boards Letter No RBA 21/2013 dated 16.08.2013.

On superannuation 60% of the amount will be provided as lump sum benefit and 40% will be invested as per the option exercised by the employee. The details of the Options are as under:

ØOption A, major amount is invested under Government securities and a part is invested in equity.

ØOption B, major amount is invested in equity market and a small part is invested in Government securities.

ØOption C, this is a balanced scheme, under which the amount under NPS account is invested equally between Government and   Equity market 

ØOption D-Default Scheme: In case of employees who are unable to choose from the above three options, Government offers a default scheme in which the standing amount is invested only in Government securities, which would fetch a stable rate of return.

The employee under the New Pension Scheme is allotted a Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) .This is a unique number, by which the amount invested by the employee can be identified.

Tier-II: Tier-II is a pension saving account with a facility for withdrawal to meet financial contingencies .It is a voluntary saving scheme and can be participated by an employee who has been allotted PRAN.  This facility can be availed through the various banks and financial institutes appointed as Points of Presence appointed by PFDRA. The list of POP’s are available on www.npscra.nsdl.co. A subscriber can make unlimited withdrawals subject to maintaining a minimum balance of Rs 2000/-The minimum contribution which can be made is Rs 250/- and minimum 4 contributions to be made in a financial year.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS IN NEW PENSION SCHEME

(I)General

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 Which offices are termed as Nodal Offices in CRA?

Nodal Offices is a generic term used for the Government offices such as Principal Accounts Office (Pr.AO), Pay and Accounts Office (PAO) and Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) under Central Government or similar offices under Central Government /State Government/Autonomous Bodies which will interact with CRA on behalf of the Subscribers for the purpose of New Pension Scheme.

What are the functions of PrAO in CRA?


 Pr.AO shall carry out the following functions in CRA · Monitor the performance of PAO and DDO in discharging their responsibilities towards the Subscribers in the CRA · Take necessary action to ensure compliance by PAO and DDO with the operational procedures of CRA · Consolidate the PAO registration forms and forward it to CRA for registration. Monitor the resolution of grievances raised against PAO.

 What are the functions of PAO in CRA?

 PAO is responsible for carrying out the following activities: Consolidate DDO registrations forms & forward it to CRA for registration. · Facilitate registration of Subscribers by consolidating the Application for allotment of PRAN received from the concerned DDO and forward it to the CRA-FC. · Upload Subscriber Contribution File (SCF) to NPSCAN system. · Deposit the contribution amount in the Trustee Bank as per the SCF uploaded in NPSCAN. · Update the Switch requests, New Scheme Preference requests, Withdrawal Requests & the request for change in Subscriber details received from Subscribers through NPSCAN. · Raise grievance on behalf of DDO and the Subscriber. · Resolve the grievance rose against it by any entities in the CRA system.

 What are the functions of DDO in CRA?

DDO is responsible for carrying out the following activities: · Obtain the duly filled Application for allotment of PRAN from the Subscribers, fill and certify the employment details and forward the same to PAO. · Distribution of PRAN kit, I-PIN, T-PIN to Subscribers. · Forward the Switch requests, New Scheme Preference requests, Change in Subscriber details request, Withdrawal Requests received from Subscribers to the PAO. · Provide information to PAO about Subscriber’s pension contribution. · Forward grievances of the Subscriber to the PAO. · Disburse payment for withdrawal to Subscribers.

How can the Nodal Offices access CRA system for carrying out various functions in CRA?

Nodal Offices can access CRA system through NPSCAN website www.npscan-cra.co.in or CRA website www.cra-nsdl.co.in. NPSCAN can be accessed for uploading Subscriber contribution details, modifying Subscriber details, updating various types of Subscriber request etc. CRA website can be accessed for raising grievances and checking the status of grievances. Both the above sites can be accessed on internet only by using the User ID and I-PIN allotted by CRA.

What is NPSCAN?

NPSCAN is a web based "NPS Contribution Accounting Network" developed by CRA to maintain accounts of Government Subscribers. PAO can access NPSCAN for uploading Subscriber contribution file, updating various types of request of Subscribers such as change in Subscriber details, change in scheme preference, switch, withdrawal etc. Nodal Office can access NPSCAN with the User ID and I-PIN allotted by CRA.

 What is an 'I-PIN'?

I-PIN is an eight character Internet Personal Identification Number issued by CRA to the PrAO and PAO for accessing the CRA/NPSCAN system through the internet. CRA shall issue single I-PIN to the PrAO whereas two set of I-PIN will be issued to the PAO. The Nodal Office can access both CRA website www.cra-nsdl.co.in and NPSCAN website www.npscan-cra.co.in. with the same user id and I-PIN. The Nodal Office should maintain the confidentiality of the I-PIN.

 What is the purpose of allotting two user id and I-PIN to the PAO?


 Some of the functions of PAO require maker and authorizer activity, i.e., the Subscriber request shall be captured by an officer using a user id and I-PIN and the authorization of the same shall be carried out by another officer using another user id and I-PIN. Hence, two user ids and I-PINs are provided to the PAOs. For this purpose, PAO shall identify two officers, one for Maker activity and another for Authorizer activity and handover the respective User ID and PIN to them.

What is a 'T-PIN'?

 T-PIN is a four digit "Telequery Personal Identification Number" issued by CRA to the PAO, which are registered with the CRA for accessing Telequery facility. Telequery facility includes both Interactive Voice Response (IVR) service and Call Centre facility. CRA shall issue single T-PIN to the PrAO whereas two set of T-PIN will be issued to the PAO. The Nodal Office should maintain the confidentiality of the T-PIN.

What are the facilities available through the Call center/IVR?


Answer: Facilities those are available for a PAO through Call centre: · T-PIN Reset · Registering grievance (only for self but not for the Subscriber) · Tracking the status of grievances through CCE · Tracking the status of the contribution file · Speaking with CCE for any Technical difficulties/ other queries

What shall a Nodal Office do in case it forgets/looses the I-PIN /T-PIN?


Answer: Nodal Office can request for a new I-PIN/T-PIN, by submitting request to CRA for reissue of PIN. Nodal Office can download the form from the CRA website. On receipt of the request, CRA shall print the PIN and dispatch it to the Nodal Office. Reissue of PIN will be chargeable by CRA.

(II) Nodal Office Registration

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How is Pr.AO registered in the CRA system?

 Pr.AO shall submit duly filled application for registration in Annexure N1 to CRA for registration. If the application form is found to be in order, CRA shall register the PrAO and allot a PrAO registration number. On successful registration, CRA shall send intimation to PrAO about the details of registration and dispatch the User ID, I-PIN and T-PIN for accessing NPSCAN/CRA system and CRA call center.Annexure N1

How is PAO/CDDO registered in the CRA system?


 A CDDO will also be registered as a PAO in CRA system. PAO/CDDO shall submit the duly filled application for registration in Annexure N2 to its Pr.AO. PrAO shall verify and forward the application form to CRA. If the application form is in order, CRA shall register the PAO/CDDO and allot a PAO registration number. On successful registration, CRA shall send intimation to PAO/CDDO about the details of registration.  CRA shall allot and dispatch the User ID, I-PIN and T-PIN for accessing NPSCAN/CRA system and CRA call center. If PrAO has not yet been registered at CRA, it shall register itself prior to forwarding the PAO registration form. For this purpose, it will have to submit duly filled Annexure N2 to CRA through the PrAO.Annexure N2
 

How does a Pr.AO cum PAO be registered in CRA?


  If the Pr.AO is a Pr.AO cum PAO i.e. it is functioning both as a Pr.AO and a PAO, then it has to be registered in the CRA as both Pr.AO and as well as a PAO. For this purpose, it shall submit both the registration forms i.e. Annexure N1 and Annexure N2 to CRA. On successful registration, CRA shall allot PrAO registration number and PAO registration number to the PrAO.
 

How is DDO registered in the CRA system?


 DDO shall submit the duly filled application for registration in Annexure N3 to its PAO. PAO shall verify and forward the application form to CRA along with a covering letter as per Annexure N4. If the application form is in order, CRA shall register the DDO and allot a DDO registration number. On successful registration, CRA shall send intimation to PAO about the details of registration of DDO. If PAO has not yet been registered at CRA, it shall register itself prior to forwarding the DDO registration form.Annexure N3
 

How does a PAO cum DDO be registered in CRA?


 If the PAO is a PAO cum DDO i.e. it is functioning both as a PAO and a DDO, then it has to be registered in the CRA as both PAO and as well as a DDO. For this purpose, it shall submit both the registration forms i.e. Annexure N2 and Annexure N3 to CRA. On successful registration, CRA shall allot PAO registration number and DDO registration number to the PAO cum DDO.

 How does a PrAO cum PAO cum DDO be registered in CRA?

 If the PrAO is a PrAO cum PAO cum DDO, i.e. it is functioning as a PrAO, PAO and a DDO, and then it has to be registered in the CRA as PrAO, PAO and as a DDO. For this purpose, it shall submit both the registration forms i.e. Annexure N1, N2 and Annexure N3 to CRA. On successful registration, CRA shall allot a PrAO registration number, PAO registration number and DDO registration number to the PrAO cum PAO cum DDO. The PrAO should identify the officers and their roles in CRA and accordingly allot the User id and I-PIN to them. 

 From where can the Nodal Offices obtain the registration forms?

The Nodal Offices can download the relevant registration form from the CRA website www.npscra.nsdl.co.in.  
 

What are the details to be submitted by the Nodal Offices for registration in CRA?


 Nodal Offices shall provide all the mandatory details required in the registration form such as  


How are the Nodal Offices identified in CRA system?


 Nodal Offices are identified by a unique number, i.e., Pr.AO /PAO/ DDO registration number that is allotted to them by the CRA on successful registration.
 

How can Nodal Offices modify its details registered with CRA?


The Nodal Offices shall notify CRA about change in the details registered with CRA by sending a written request containing details of the change. In case of change in details of a PAO or PAO cum DDO, the request has to be authorized by the respective Pr. AO whereas in case of change in details of a DDO, the request has to be authorized by the respective PAO. In case In case of the PrAO, the request shall be directly sent to CRA. On receipt of the request, CRA shall update the changes.

III - Registration of Subscribers

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Who are termed as Subscriber in CRA?


 Subscriber is the employee of Central Government (excluding Armed Forces), State Government, Union Territories and Autonomous bodies who have joined service on or after 1 January 2004 and is part of New Pension System.

What are the pre-requisites for Subscriber registration?
Following conditions have to be met for a Subscriber to be registered with CRA; · Subscriber is covered under the New Pension System · The Nodal Offices i.e. the respective Pr.AO, PAO and DDO have been registered in CRA and have been allotted registration number by CRA.

Whether existing Subscriber (who have been allotted PPAN) require to register again?


 Existing Subscriber who have been allotted PPAN have to be registered afresh in CRA system by submitting Annexure S1. Fresh registration is required to enable CRA to issue Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) card to the Subscriber containing PRAN, photograph and signature of the Subscriber.Annexure S1
 
How can Subscribers apply for PRAN?


 Subscriber shall submit duly filled application for allotment of PRAN as per Annexure S1 to the DDO in duplicate. Only those Subscribers of a DDO who are registered with CRA can apply for allotment of PRAN. If the DDO is not registered, it has to first register itself with CRA.

 

From where can Subscriber obtain the registration forms?


  Application form for registration of Subscribers can be downloaded from the CRA website www.npscra.nsdl.co.in

 What are the details to be filled in the Subscriber's registration form?


The following details have to be provided in the application for allotment of PRAN.

Section A - Subscriber Personal Details

Section B - Subscriber Employment Details

Section C - Subscriber Nomination Details

Section D – Subscriber Scheme details

Section E - Declaration for I-PIN & T – PIN

The Employment details (Section B) will be provided by the respective DDO whereas all other details will have to be provided by the Subscriber. In case of existing Subscribers who have been allotted PPAN, the same needs to be provided in the form.

For Scheme details (Section C) - as per the present guidelines of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), contribution towards pension will be invested in the default Schemes termed Scheme of various Pension Fund Managers in the proportion of 85% in fixed income instruments and 15% in equity and equity related instruments. Hence, in the application form for PRAN, the details of the schemes need not be mentioned. Subscriber shall also submit a latest color photograph and his signature/Thumb impression (duly attested by Gazetted Officer). The Subscriber can refer to the instructions given in the form for filling the form.

What are the mandatory details to be provided in the Subscriber's registration form?


 The section of Personal and employment details are mandatory, However, some of the fields in these sections are not mandatory e.g. details of PAN. Nomination and scheme preference details are optional and can be provided any time after registration. If the Subscriber does not provide any scheme preference details, his contribution will be invested in the default scheme as specified by PFRDA. As per the present guidelines of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), contribution towards pension will be invested in the default Schemes termed Scheme of various Pension Fund Managers in the proportion of 85% in fixed income instruments and 15% in equity and equity related instruments. Hence, in the application form for PRAN, the details of the schemes need not be mentioned.

What is the role of a DDO in Subscriber Registration?


 The Subscriber shall submit Annexure S1 to the DDO in duplicate. Immediately on joining service, the DDO should get the form duly filled by the Subscriber. On receipt of the application, DDO shall provide the employment details of the Subscriber (Section B) and attest the other details mentioned in the form. DDO shall collect and consolidate all such applications received from the associated Subscribers and forward the same to the PAO along with a covering letter as per Annexure S5. The covering letter can be downloaded from the CRA website. PAO should note that unless PRAN has been allotted, the PAO could not upload the contribution details of the Subscriber.

Checklist for DDOs for Subscriber registration?


 Checklist for DDOs is as follows:

1.All the mandatory fields are filled.

2.Photograph and Signature provided by the Subscriber. In case of thumb impression, it should be duly attested by a Gazzeted Officer (If DDO is Gazzeted officer, attestation can be done by the DDO also).

3.Provide Employment details of the Subscriber.

4.Provide Stamp and Signature of Authorized Signatory

5.Provide the DDOs covering letter with not more than 50 Subscriber Registration forms.

What are the guidelines for preparation of the covering letters for Subscriber registration?


 DDO shall prepare a batch of maximum 50 Subscriber applications and prepare a covering letter as per Annexure S5 for each batch and forward it to the PAO. DDO should note that number of applications covered in a single batch/covering letter should not exceed 50. e.g. if there are 80 Subscriber applications, DDO shall prepare two batches with covering letter each - one for 50 applications and another for next 30 applications.

What is the role of a PAO in Subscriber Registration?


 Only those Subscribers of a PAO and DDO who are already registered with CRA can apply for Allotment of PRAN. If the PAO/DDO is not registered, it has to first register itself with CRA. On receipt of the Subscriber application forms in duplicate from the associated DDO, PAO shall verify the forms. PAO shall forward the forms along with a covering letter to the CRA-FC as per Annexure S6. The format of covering letter and list of CRA-FCs are available at CRA website www.npscra.nsdl.co.in

What is Checklist for PAOs for Subscriber registration?

 Checklist for PAOs is as follows:

1.Employment details have been provided by DDO

2.DDOs covering letter with not more than 50 Subscriber Registration forms.

3.PAO Covering letter for the DDOs letter.

What  is a CRA-FC?


CRA-FC is the facilitation centers appointed by CRA for accepting Subscriber Registration forms. The CRA-FC shall digitize the applications and upload the details to CRA system. The details of CRA-FCs will be made available in our website shortly.

What is the proof of submission of forms to CRA-FC?


 On acceptance of Subscriber application forms, CRA-FC shall issue a DDO wise Provisional Receipt containing the Provisional Receipt number (PRN), details of number of forms submitted by PAO, number of forms accepted by the CRA-FC and number of forms rejected by CRA-FC. The PRAN will be issued for each batch of application forms submitted (i.e. each DDO covering letter). Under each batch, CRA-FC shall also mention an acknowledgement number for each application contained in the batch. The acknowledgement number will be the PRN plus two digit-running serial numbers for individual forms. For e.g. the PRN can be 101877300000066, if the CRA-FC receives 45 forms the acknowledgment numbers generated for the forms will be 10187730000006601 - 10187730000006645. The Provisional Receipt (PR) will be handed over to the PAO along with the duplicate copy of Subscriber application forms containing the acknowledgement numbers. Provisional Receipt Number

How can a PAO/DDO check the status of the Subscriber Registration forms submitted to CRA-FC?


PAO/DDO can check the status of the Subscriber's application from CRA, by quoting the PRN or the acknowledgement number from the option "Subscriber Registration Status View" in the CRA website www.cra-nsdl.com

Can  CRA-FC reject the Subscriber application forms?


CRA-FC can reject an application form either at the time of acceptance or during digitization if any discrepancies are noticed by it. CRA-FC shall issue a rejection memo to the PAO with the reason(s) for rejection. For such cases, a fresh application shall be submitted by the Subscriber after rectifying the discrepancies.


How is the Subscriber intimated of PRAN?


 CRA shall forward the PRAN kit containing PRAN card and Subscriber Master Report along with I-PIN and T-PIN to the associated PAO for onward forwarding to DDO. The DDO on receipt of the PRAN kits from the PAO shall reconcile the PRAN kits received against the application made and hand over the PRAN kits to the respective Subscriber

                                          (IV) Maintenance of Subscriber's details

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 How can the Subscriber change the details submitted to CRA at the time of registration?


 Subscriber has to submit a written request in the format prescribed by CRA, to the concerned DDO who in turn has to submit the same after verification to the concerned PAO. PAO can make the electronic request for the change requested through NPSCAN.

 What details of the Subscriber can a PAO update?


  PAO can update the following requests of the Subscriber through NPSCAN system -

1. Change in Personal details including Bank details

2. Change in Employment details

3. Change in Nomination details

4. Change in Scheme details.

5. Switch request

6. Withdrawal request

7. Reissue of I-PIN and T-PIN

8. Reprint of PRAN Card

9. PAO can also generate and print Statement of Transaction of a Subscriber associated with it.·

The option for change in Scheme details and Switch is presently not available and will be made available to the Subscriber subject to the guidelines issued by PFRDA.

 What is the role of PAO in updation of Subscriber's details in the CRA system?


 PAO shall be responsible for updating Subscribers request in CRA system (except change in signature and photograph). PAO shall on receipt of written request of Subscriber from the DDO, capture the request in NPSCAN by using the User ID and I-PIN.

For change in signature and photograph, PAO has to forward the request to the CRA-FC.

 Does a PAO forward the physical application to CRA?


 PAO has to retain the change request forms for its record purpose and should not forward the forms to CRA. CRA will act only on the basis of the electronic request received from the PAO.

What is the checklist for PAO prior to updating the request in NPSCAN?


  PAO shall verify the following before making an electronic request for updating Subscriber's details:

1.PRAN provided by the Subscriber is valid (Active)

2.PRAN (Subscriber) is associated with the PAO

3.Request form is completely filled by the Subscriber

4.Request form is duly signed by the Subscriber

5.Request form is duly verified and signed by the DDO of the Subscriber

6.Request form is filled as per the instructions given in the form.

 What request can be carried out using only a Maker activity?


 Changes in Personal details can be carried out by single user without further authorisation. However, changes in core data i.e. data printed on the PRAN card has to be carried out by maker-authoriser system. All the other updation requests shall be carried out by maker-authoriser system.

 What is maker-authoriser concept?


 Maker- Authoriser requires that the request is to be captured by one officer using a User ID and I-PIN and the authorisation of the same shall be done by another officer using another user id and I-PIN. The PAO shall identity two different officers to carry out the Maker and Checker activity. In NPSCAN, certain type of request shall require only a Maker activity whereas certain type of request shall require both Maker and Authoriser activity.

What is the procedure for change in Employment details? Whether Subscriber has to submit any application for the same?


 In case of change in any employment details such as pay scale, basic salaries etc.., Subscriber need not submit any change request. Such changes can be updated by the PAO on receipt of intimation about the change from the DDO.

When can Subscriber withdraw from CRA system?


 Subscriber can exit from CRA in case of Resignation, Retirement or on death of Subscriber. CRA shall process the withdrawal request solely on the basis of electronic request received at NPSCAN from the PAO. PAO shall not send any documents/physical request to CRA. CRA shall not take cognizance of any physical communication sent to CRA with respect to withdrawal. CRA will not be able to address any Subscriber grievance with respect to withdrawal, unless the request has been authorized by PAO at NPSCAN. The redemption proceeds on account of withdrawal will be forwarded by CRA to the PAO for disbursement to the Subscriber. The detailed guidelines regarding withdrawal is yet to be finalized.
 

What is the role of Nodal Offices in Subscriber's request for change in signature and photograph?


 Subscriber has to submit the change request as per prescribed format to the DDO in Form S7 with whom he/she is associated. After verification and authorisation of the request, DDO has to consolidate all such requests and forward it to the concerned PAO along with a covering letter as per the prescribed format in Form S8.  PAO has to verify and authorise the request and submit the request to the CRA-FC. On upload of the request by CRA-FC, new signature and/or photograph will be updated in the CRA system. CRA shall print a new PRAN card and dispatch it to PAO who forwards it to the DDO for onward distribution to Subscriber.

(V) Subscriber Contribution Upload

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How shall PAO process the Subscriber contribution records of the Subscribers?


Steps in the Process for upload of Subscriber contribution files:

1.Consolidation of DDO wise Subscriber contribution records.

2.Digitization of records through FPU or own back office.

3.Validation of the contribution file using File Validation Utility (FVU)

4.Upload of contribution file in the NPSCAN by PAO.

5.Transfer of funds to the Trustee Bank along with Contribution Submission form (CSF).

How shall contribution records of newly joined employees be processed?


Subscriber contribution record can be updated for a Subscriber who has been allotted PRAN by CRA. Hence, immediately on joining, the DDO should get the registration form duly filled by the Subscriber and forward it to PAO. Once PRAN has been allotted, the contribution details (for the previous months if any) can be uploaded as Arrears. 

What is a Subscriber Contribution file (SCF)?


 SCF is the file containing the details of the contributions of Subscriber (Own and Government contribution) towards the pension fund. PAO shall prepare the DDO wise Subscriber’s contribution file to be uploaded to the NPSCAN.  

How can a contribution file be prepared?


  At the end of every month, the DDO shall forward the contribution details of the Subscribers to the PAO. The PAO shall consolidate the data and prepare a Subscriber contribution file using File Preparation Utility (FPU) provided by CRA. PAO may also use any equivalent software for preparation of SCF. However, the file so prepared should be as per file formats of CRA.
Alternatively, the respective DDO can create the SCF using the FPU. PAO can consolidate the DDO wise files using a File Merger Utility (FMU) (FMU is in the process of development) being provided by CRA. After consolidating the files through FMU, PAO shall open the file in FPU for creation of final SCF to be run through FVU.
 

Whether PAO can carry out multiple uploads for SCF.


 It is not mandatory for a PAO to upload a consolidated SCF. PAO can carry out multiple uploads of SCF as and when the data is received from the respective DDOs.
 

 

What is FPU?


 File Preparation Utility (FPU) is a stand-alone utility provided by CRA to enable PAO to prepare the monthly Subscribers' contribution file as per the file formats of CRA. It will contain details such as PAO Registration number, DDO Registration number, Subscriber PRAN, amount of Government contribution is equal to Subscriber contribution, Pay month etc. In case of any incorrect data format inserted, FPU provides error prompt to enable the PAO to rectify the same. FPU has excel type features such as copy, paste, insert/delete rows etc.
 

What is FMU?


 If DDO prepares the SCF then File Merger Utility (FMU) will provide PAO with the option of merging all the .fpu files prepared by individual DDOs.  FMU will generate a single consolidated file in the fpu format. This merged file has to be opened by PAO using File Preparation Utility (FPU) for preparing a final text file.
 

What is FVU?


 File validation utility (FVU) is a stand-alone utility provided by CRA to validate the contribution file prepared using FPU or the uploading Nodal Office's own software, against a set of validation rules. On successful validation, an output file with extension .fvu along with a control total html file will be generated, which can be uploaded in the NPSCAN/CRA system. If any of the validations fail, then the file will be rejected and an error file will be generated.  

From where can PAO obtain the FPU, FMU, FVU or the file formats?


PAO can download the FPU, FMU, FVU and the file formats from CRA website.  

 What are the platforms for execution of FPU, FMU and FVU?


The utilities can be executed on any of the following windows platform:
Win 95/Win 98/Win 2K Professional/Win 2K Server/Win NT 4.0 Server/Win XP Professional. Further, Java (JRE 1.5 version) has to be installed to run FPU, FVU and FMU. The above said software can be freely downloaded from http://java.com. 

What is the output file generated by FVU?


If the format level validation is successful at FVU, then an output file with extension .fvu along with a control total html file will be generated in the specified path. The .fvu file will contain the contribution details, FVU version and FVU generated hash value (digital lock to prevent the file being tampered) which has to be uploaded to NPSCAN. This control total file in html form would be for record purpose of the PAO. 

What should a PAO do if file is not successfully run through FVU?


 If the SCF validation is not successful, FVU will generate a error report containing details of the errors. The PAO shall rectify the errors in the original file and again pass it through the FVU until all records are rectified and SCF is successfully validated through FVU. 

What is the error file generated by FVU?


 If any of the validations fail in FVU, FVU will generate an error file in the specified folder indicating the details of the errors such as contribution month is a future month etc. 

What are the types of errors, which will be given by the FVU?


 FVU will validate whether the file is as per the format specified by CRA. Some of the errors which FVU may show are - Sum total of Subscriber contribution and Government contribution are not matching, contribution year is a future year etc.

Are FPU and FVU mandatory for preparation of contribution file?


 PAO can use its own software for preparation of the file. However, the file should confirm to the file formats of CRA. The output file should be in ASCII Format with ".txt" as filename extension.  However, it is mandatory for the PAO to validate the output file through FVU, irrespective of whether it has been created through FPU or own back office. Unless the file is successfully validated by FVU, it cannot be uploaded to the NPSCAN system. Therefore, in nutshell, the usage of FVU is mandatory, but usage of FPU is optional. 

Whether the PAO is required to prepare a new contribution file every month?


 PAO can reuse the contribution file prepared initially through the FPU by modifying the required details such as month of contribution etc.. When creating the final SCF file, FPU will create two files - a .fpu file for future use and a .txt file for upload to NPSCAN. For next month SCF, PAO can open the .fpu file of the previous month using the FPU and make the necessary modifications. For the record of PAO, the final file may be saved with the name of the month and year.
 

How can PAO upload the SCF?


 PAO shall login to NPSCAN and upload the SCF, which is successfully validated by FVU. On acceptance of the file, a transaction id will be generated along with a Contribution Submission Form, which will contain the details of the SCF. PAO will print the SCF and submit it to the Trustee Bank along with transfer of funds.

Whether SCF can be rejected at CRA even after same is successfully validated by FVU.


 FVU is a standalone utility and checks only the format level validations. However, database level validations such as whether PAO, DDO, Subscriber id is valid etc. will be carried out at CRA system. Hence, in such cases file which is successfully validated by FVU can be rejected at CRA.
 

How to check the status of SCF uploaded to CRA?


 There will be ‘view” facility provided to the Nodal Offices to check the status of the contribution file. User can enquire about the status of a particular file by entering the upload period (from and to date) or batch id /file reference number or Transaction id. PAO can also check whether the SCF has been matched and booked, whether the Trustee Bank has uploaded the fund receipt confirmation.
 

Can PAO make any corrections to an uploaded file?


 PAO can correct the details of the file already uploaded in the NPSCAN/CRA system by preparing and uploading a correction file along with the transaction id of the original file. The PAO will have to upload the entire file with the corrected records. PAO can upload the correction file only if the status of original file is not 'Matched and Booked" at CRA system. The file will go into "Matched & Booked" status once the information of receipt of payment is uploaded by Trustee bank & the records provided their in match with the records provided by PAO. If the original file is already matched and booked in CRA, PAO cannot upload a correction file. PAO can adjust the short/excess payment in the next month’s contribution record to be uploaded to CRA.


 How can PAO process contribution arising out of arrears?


 The contribution arising out of arrears can be uploaded to CRA along with the regular contribution. At the time of preparing the SCF, PAO shall enter the contribution type as Arrears and mention the period of arrears in the Remarks column.
 

At what levels error files will be generated?


Error files will be generated at two levels:
(a) FVU
(b) NPSCAN
 
If any of the validations fail in FVU, FVU will generate an error file in the specified folder indicating the details of the errors such as contribution month is a future month etc.


In case of validation failure in NPSCAN, an error file will be generated indicating the details of the error such as Duplicate files having same batch id, invalid PAO-DDO mapping, invalid PAO id, invalid PRAN. In case of rejection by NPSCAN, the error file will be available for download through the Contribution File Status View. On the basis of the File Reference Number generated at the time of uploading the contribution file, the PAO can check the status of the file.
 

How are funds transferred to Trustee Bank?


 PAO shall transfer the funds to the Trustee Bank along with the Contribution Submission Form (CSF) generated by NPSCAN. The funds can be transferred either through cheque/DD/electronic transfer such as RTGS, NEFT etc. The Trustee Bank shall confirm to CRA the funds transferred by the respective PAO against the respective transaction id. 

 What are the precautions to be taken while transferring funds through RTGS/NEFT?


PAO shall provide the following additional details in the RTGS/NEFT slip:
a) PAO Registration Number
b) Transaction id.
The above details are critical since unless the above data reaches the Trustee Bank along with the funds, it will not be in a position to identify the PAO and the SCF for which funds are received for transmitting the fund confirmation receipt to CRA.
 

How can PAO check whether the Trustee Bank has transmitted the confirmation of funds to CRA?


 PAO will have the 'Trustee Bank Uploaded Records View' where Trustee Bank fund confirmation details will be available. PAO will also receive an alert if the Trustee Bank does not upload the fund receipt confirmation file within 3 days of upload.

What are the various reports available to PrAO?

 Various reports which are available to the PrAOs are:

1.Contribution file status

2.Verification Pending Request

3.Pending Contribution files

4.PAO Performance for Contribution Upload

5.Exception report for PAO Performance for Subscriber Registration 

What are the various reports available to PAO?


Various reports which are available to the PAOs are:

1.Pending Contribution files

2.Statement of Holding of Subscriber.

3.Statement of Transactions of Subscriber.

4.Trustee Bank upload records

5.Subscriber Retirement Details 

What are the various information / alerts sent by CRA to the PAO?


 Various information / alerts, which are sent by CRA to PAO:

1.on successful registration of PAO in CRA system

2.on successful registration of DDO in CRA system

3.on rejection of Subscriber application for registration

4.Contribution file which has been uploaded by PAO and the corresponding Fund Receipt      

5.Confirmation

6.is not uploaded by Trustee Bank to CRA within 3 business days

7.When the status of contribution file is 'Match Failed'.

8.When the PAO contribution file is rejected by the NPSCAN

9.Subscriber request for modification is rejected by CRA

                                                           (VI) Grievances

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How can a Nodal Office raise a grievance in CRA system?


A PAO or DDO can raise grievances in the CRA system. PAO can raise a grievance either through the CRA website www.cra-nsdl.co.in. With its User ID and I-PIN or through the CRA Call center using the T-PIN. In case of grievance of the DDO, it shall submit the details in the grievance form (Form-G4) to the PAO. The PAO can raise the grievance on behalf of the DDO or the Subscriber through the CRA website. PAO can raise the grievance only through the above-mentioned modes. CRA shall not take cognizance of grievance raised through any other modes such as submitting physical letter etc.
 

What are the details to be provided at the time of registering the grievance?


At the time of registering the grievance, the Nodal Office shall provide its CRA registration number, the details of the grievance, on whose behalf the grievance is being raised etc.
 

What are the nature of grievances that can be raised by PAO/DDO?


 PAO can raise grievance with respect to the following:

Grievance against CRA:

1.PRAN allotted but cards not received

2.T-PIN/I-PIN not received

3.PRAN not allotted /partially allotted

4.Withdrawal amount not received

Grievance against Trustee Bank

1.Contribution details not uploaded

2.Incorrect contribution amount uploaded

3.Delay in uploading contribution

PAO can also raise grievance on behalf of the DDO or Subscriber associated with it. For this purpose, the DDO/Subscriber shall provide the details of the grievance in physical format to the PAO.

 

What are the grievances a PAO can raise against CRA on behalf of Subscriber?


 A PAO can raise the following grievances against CRA on behalf of the Subscriber:

1.Incorrect PRAN account details on registration – (Personal/Employment/Nomination Scheme setup)

2.Statement of Transaction not received.

3.Change in signature/photograph request not updated

How can a Nodal Office check the status of the grievance/complaint logged?


On receipt of the grievance, CRA shall issue a Token number as acknowledgement. If grievance is logged through CRA website, the token number will be displayed on the screen on successful submission of grievance. The details of the token number will also be intimated by CRA at the email address of the PAO/DDO. The Nodal Offices can check the status of the grievance by logging to the CRA website or through the call centre by using token number. On resolution of the grievance, CRA shall send an email to the PAO/DDO containing the details of resolution.
 

How shall PAO resolve the grievance rose against it?


PAO can login to CRA website using the I-PIN and check the details of the grievances raised against it by the Subscribers. PAO shall resolve the grievance and mention the action taken in the resolution field provided for this purpose.CRA shall send the resolution remark of the PAO to the Subscriber who has raised the grievance.
 

Whether there is any mechanism for escalation for grievance not resolved by PAO?


PAO shall resolve the grievance raised against it within three days of receipt of the grievance. If grievance is not resolved within three days, an email alert will be sent to the PrAO. If grievance is pending for the next five days, another email alert will be sent by CRA to the PrAO. If the grievance is still not resolved in the next two days, CRA shall intimate the Subscriber about non-resolution of grievance by the PAO.

Acronyms

ABBREVIATIONS.

FULL FORMS

Pr PAO

Principal Accounts Office

PAO

Pay and Accounts Office

DDO

Drawing and Disbursing Officer

NSDL

National Securities Depositories Limited

SCF

Subscriber Contribution File

BOI

Bank Of India

PFDRA

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority

CRA

Central Recordkeeping Agency

CSF

Contribution Submission File

PPAN

Permanent Pension Account Number

PRAN

Permanent Retirement Account Number

FMU

File Merger Utility

FPU

File preparation Utility

SOT

Statement of Transactions

NPSCAN

Is a web based "NPS Contribution Accounting Network

I-PIN

Internet Personal Identification Number

T-PIN

"Telequery Personal Identification Number"

CRA-FC

Central Recordkeeping Agency-Facilitation Centre

Prepared by:   NPS Section, FA & CAO’s Office HQRS, CST Mumbai.

Source: NSDL Website






Source : Central Railway / Indian Railways Portal CMS Team Last Reviewed : 09-05-2023  


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