Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has stated that the National Pension Scheme (NPS) has delivered an average annual return of 13% to investors since its inception. Speaking at an NPS Day event, she highlighted that NPS is a globally recognized top-tier investment product. She also emphasized that government bonds and corporate bonds have provided returns of around 9%.

Launched in 2004, NPS was initially limited to railway employees but was extended to all citizens in 2009. Now, anyone can invest in NPS. Its ability to deliver 13% returns over 10-15 years has garnered significant attention.

Over the past decade, India’s stock market (Nifty 50) has achieved a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.76%. The Nifty 50, which was at 8,189 points in 2015, rose to 24,894 points by October 3, 2025. Mutual funds have averaged returns of 10-12%. Against this backdrop, NPS’s 13% return stands out as remarkable. Karatcart Traditional Gold Plated Green Stone Laxmi Mata Temple Jewellery Set for Women

What is NPS?
The National Pension Scheme (NPS) is a pension plan overseen by the central government. Anyone above 18 years can open an NPS account and invest monthly until retirement. The invested funds are allocated across various market-linked options. Upon retirement, 40% of the corpus must be used to purchase an annuity plan, while the remaining amount can be withdrawn. Caste Census Pretext Robbery: Intruders Brutally Assault Woman Inside Home