National Pension Scheme for Traders, Shopkeepers and Self-Employed Persons (originally proposed name was, Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Scheme) has been launched on 12.09.2019. It is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme.  

• The traders in the age group of 18-40 years with an annual turnover, not exceeding Rs.1.5 crore and who is not a member of EPFO/ESIC/NPS/PM-SYM or an income tax payer, can join the scheme.  
• Under the scheme, 50% monthly contribution is payable by the beneficiary and equal matching contribution is paid by the Central Government. Subscribers, after attaining the age of 60 years, are eligible for a monthly minimum assured pension of Rs.3,000/-.  
• As the Scheme has been launched on 12th September, 2019. It envisages a coverage of about 50 lakh enrolments under the Scheme for 2019-20.  
• In order to achieve this, various measures including celebration of Pension Week/ Pension Saptah have been taken.   

• All State/UT Governments were requested for popularizing and bringing more awareness about the Scheme.   
• The progress of the Scheme is being reviewed regularly in the Ministry at senior level with State/UT Governments, for taking initiatives under Mission Mode. Ministry of Labour & Employment is the nodal ministry to implement the scheme. 

Source: ForumIAS factly