NPS's New Rule With Mandate Two-Factor Aadhaar Authentication Starts From April 1; Check Full Details Here

This newly added layer ensures the security of NPS transactions and safeguards the interests of both subscribers and stakeholders

According to the circular, the NPS central record-keeping agency (CRA) system will incorporate Aadhaar-based login authentication alongside the existing user ID and password-based login process ( Image Source :Getty )

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has tightened the security measures of the National Pension System (NPS) by implementing a new layer of security: mandatory two-factor Aadhaar-based authentication for all password-based users accessing the CRA system. This enhanced security measure will come into effect from April 1, 2024, as announced by the PFRDA through a circular issued on March 15, 2024.

This newly added layer ensures the security of NPS transactions and safeguards the interests of both subscribers and stakeholders. According to the circular, the NPS central record-keeping agency (CRA) system will incorporate Aadhaar-based login authentication alongside the existing user ID and password-based login process. This integration aims to enable access to the CRA system through two-factor authentication. With the implementation of the new security protocol, NPS subscribers can access their accounts solely after completing Aadhaar-based authentication and entering the OTP sent to their registered mobile number after March 31.

The PFRDA notification reads, “To enhance the security measures in accessing the CRA system and safeguard the interests of subscribers and stakeholders, it has been decided to bring in additional security features through Aadhaar-based authentication for login to the CRA system." 

It added, “The Aadhaar-based login authentication will be integrated with the current user ID and password-based login process to make the CRA system accessible through 2-Factor Authentication."

“User IDs of Nodal offices under the Government Sector (Central/State/CAB/SAB) shall be permitted to log in to the CRA system (CRA & NPSCAN) using 2-Factor Authentication through Aadhaar OTP (One-time password). The Oversight Office (PrAO/DTA) must initially link their Aadhaar with their respective CRA User ID, enabling underlying users to initiate Aadhaar Mapping. Similarly, PAO/DTO must link their Aadhaar with their respective CRA User ID, allowing underlying DDOs to initiate Aadhaar linking,” as per the PFRDA circular.

Here are the revised steps to access the NPS account using two-factor Aadhaar authentication:

• Navigate to the NPS website: https://enps.nsdl.com/eNPS/NationalPensionSystem.html
• Select the 'Login with PRAIN/IPIN' option.
• Click on the PRAIN/IPIN tab to open a new window.
• Login using your user ID and password.
• Complete the Captcha verification.
• The window will then prompt for Aadhaar authentication and send an OTP to your registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP received.
• You will now be granted access to your NPS account.