New leadership for India’s pension regulator
Sivasubramanian Ramann Appointed as New PFRDA Chairperson: India’s pension system is undergoing a quiet yet crucial transformation. With Sivasubramanian Ramann now at the helm of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), new energy is expected to flow into the sector. He took charge on June 20, 2025, and his five-year term is set to be a period of deeper reforms, expanded outreach, and stronger digital integration.
PFRDA’s growing importance
The PFRDA, established in 2003, is responsible for overseeing the country’s pension schemes. This includes the National Pension System (NPS) and the Atal Pension Yojana (APY). These are not just for salaried professionals anymore. The authority is now working toward expanding pensions to self-employed and informal sector workers, many of whom still have no retirement safety net.
India currently spends a very small share of its household savings—just 5.7%—on pension assets. Increasing this figure is a core priority for PFRDA under Ramann’s leadership.
Who is Sivasubramanian Ramann?
Ramann’s career brings together experience from multiple financial corners. He was Chairman and Managing Director of SIDBI, where he focused on micro and small business development. He also headed the National E-Governance Services Ltd (NeSL) and worked as Chief General Manager at SEBI. His earlier role as Deputy CAG sharpened his audit and governance insights.
Academically, he holds degrees in Economics (BA), MBA from Delhi University, MSc in Financial Regulation from the London School of Economics, and is also a Certified Internal Auditor and Digital Officer. His education and service record make him particularly suited to lead an institution like PFRDA at a time when financial literacy and technology are becoming inseparable.
Major tasks ahead
One of the immediate challenges for Ramann will be the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, a newly proposed model where parents can build a retirement fund for their children. It’s an ambitious plan, but one that reflects the long-term thinking now associated with India’s pension architecture.
The authority is also aiming to improve awareness about pension products. Despite government promotion, many workers remain unaware or unsure of pension options. Ramann’s digital expertise is likely to play a key role here.
A transition at the top
Ramann replaces Deepak Mohanty, who held the position since March 2023. The appointment was officially confirmed through a Government of India notification dated April 8, 2025. Ramann will draw a monthly salary of ₹5,62,500, without house or vehicle benefits.
This change in leadership is more than symbolic. It marks a step forward in India’s efforts to make pensions more inclusive, transparent, and future-ready.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Summary | Details |
| Appointee | Sivasubramanian Ramann |
| Position | Chairperson, PFRDA |
| Assumed Charge | June 20, 2025 |
| Term Duration | 5 years or till age 65 |
| Predecessor | Deepak Mohanty |
| Key Past Roles | SIDBI, SEBI, NeSL, CAG |
| Academic Qualifications | MBA, MSc, LLB, CIA, Securities Law Diploma |
| Monthly Salary | ₹5,62,500 (no house or car) |
| PFRDA Established | 2003 |
| Main Schemes Regulated | NPS, Atal Pension Yojana |
| Major Focus Areas | Pension access, NPS Vatsalya, Digital push |
