Nearly 5,000 Drivers to Benefit from India’s First-of-its-Kind Model
In a landmark move to strengthen the social security net for gig and informal workers, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has launched the National Pension System (NPS) for Goa’s driver community in partnership with GoaMiles and HDFC Pension Fund (PoP).
The initiative was inaugurated at a special event held in Panjim on 30th September 2025, in the presence of the Transport Minister of Goa, Shri Mauvin Godinho. The scheme will extend structured retirement planning to nearly 5,000 drivers associated with the GoaMiles platform — making it a first-of-its-kind model in India.
At the launch event, 50 Permanent Retirement Account Numbers (PRANs) were symbolically distributed to drivers, marking the beginning of this impactful initiative. GoaMiles will also make contributions to each of its mobility partners’ NPS accounts, ensuring long-term financial security for its drivers.
Drivers — The Brand Ambassadors of Goa
Speaking at the launch, Shri Mauvin Godinho, Transport Minister of Goa, expressed gratitude to PFRDA and GoaMiles for their joint effort in empowering the state’s driver community.
He said,
“The drivers of Goa are not just service providers — they are the brand ambassadors of our state, representing our hospitality, culture, and values to every visitor. Goa, though India’s smallest state, has always led by example, and this initiative perfectly aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.”
He added that Goa will continue to take the lead in people-centric reforms that bring inclusivity and financial dignity to every segment of society.
“Let’s Grow Rich Before We Grow Old” — PFRDA Chairperson
Shri S. Ramann, Chairman, PFRDA, highlighted the importance of financial discipline and early savings.
“Let’s grow rich before we grow old. The power of compounding is real—and when tapped into early, even modest savings can grow into a substantial and dignified retirement corpus,” he said.
“NPS is designed to give every Indian a structured, inclusive, and long-term savings platform.”
GoaMiles and HDFC Pension Fund Join Hands for Financial Security
Sriram Iyer, MD & CEO, HDFC Pension Fund, shared his enthusiasm for being part of the initiative:
“We are pleased to partner with GoaMiles to secure the future for their ‘Kaptaans’. Retirement planning is essential for all, and we’re proud to contribute to a financially secure future for India’s workforce.”
Adding to this, Shri Utkarsh Dabhade, CEO of GoaMiles, emphasized that GoaMiles has always focused on empowering its drivers through sustainable livelihood opportunities.
“By extending NPS, we’re ensuring our drivers enjoy long-term financial dignity while continuing to represent Goa’s warmth and hospitality. GoaMiles will contribute to the NPS accounts of all our 5,000 mobility partners,” he said.
Towards “Every Profession, One Pension”
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Shri Sumit Kumar, Chief General Manager, PFRDA, who appreciated the Government of Goa, GoaMiles, HDFC Pension Fund, and the driver community for making this pioneering initiative possible.
With this launch, PFRDA takes another strong step towards its vision of “Every Profession, One Pension”, spreading the message that —
“NPS Zaruri Hai.”
