The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) on March 20, 2026, notified regarding permitting the Points of Presence for engagement of 'other persons' as Pension Agents for the distribution of Pension Schemes.
The following has been stated:
• This circular is in continuation of earlier circulars (Sept 23 and Oct 16, 2025) regarding engagement of Pension Agents by Points of Presence (PoPs).
• Pension Agents are key intermediaries providing last-mile connectivity for the distribution of the National Pension System and expanding outreach.
• The Authority has clarified and expanded the scope of “any other person” to include new categories such as PACS, MSME associations, CA/CS/CMA professionals, CFA/CFP holders, SHG-based sakhis, GDS, and fintech/digital platforms.
• Engagement of these entities is subject to PoP Board approval and compliance with the regulatory guidelines of respective authorities.
• PoPs will remain fully responsible for acts/omissions of Pension Agents, including adherence to KYC, AML, and CFT norms under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.
[Notification no. - PFRDA/2026/20/REG-POP/04]
