New NPS rule from April 1: How to do two-factor Aadhaar authentication to log into National Pension System account

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has improved the security of the National Pension System (NPS) by implementing a new security layer, two-factor Aadhaar-based authentication, which will be required for all password-based users logging into the CRA system beginning April 1, 2024, according to the PFRDA circular dated on March 15, 2024.

NPS: What are the benefits of this security feature

The two-factor approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the CRA system. This additional layer safeguards NPS transactions and protects the interests of both subscribers and stakeholders.

Also read: How to make partial withdrawal from NPS account


Login mechanism now for NPS CRAs
As per the circular, an Aadhaar-based login authentication will be integrated with the current user ID and password-based login process to make the NPS central record-keeping agency or CRA system accessible through two-factor authentication.

How to login NPS using 2-factor authentication

Steps to enter the CRA system with 2-Factor Authentication
Step 1: Visit the NPS website: https://enps.nsdl.com/eNPS/NationalPensionSystem.html
Step 2: Go to ‘Login with PRAIN/IPIN’
Step 3: Click the PRAIN/IPIN tab, and a new window will open
Step 4: Enter your user ID and password
Step 5: Enter Captcha
Step 6: window will prompt for Aadhaar authentication and send an Step 7: OTP on your registered mobile number
Step 8: Enter the OTP
> You will access your NPS account.

Additional Security Feature
To enhance security and safeguard the interests of subscribers and stakeholders, the CRA system will now use Aadhaar-based authentication for login purposes. The Aadhaar-based login authentication will be linked with the present User ID and Password login method, allowing for 2-factor authentication to access the CRA system.

Aadhaar Mapping
Nodal offices in the government sector can use Aadhaar OTP for 2-factor authentication on the CRA and NPSCAN systems. To commence Aadhaar Mapping, the Oversight Office (PrAO/DTA) must first link Aadhaar with the corresponding CRA User ID. PAO/DTOs must link their Aadhaar with their CRA User ID to enable DDOs to commence Aadhaar linkage.

Performance of NPS Activities
Government and autonomous bodies must implement Aadhaar-based login and authentication in the CRA system for NPS operations.



Standard Operating Process
The attached document outlines the process for Nodal offices attached with Protean CRA to link their Aadhaar and proceed with functional activities using the CRA system and covers the following points:
i. One-time registration of Aadhaar number against Nodal Office User ID
ii. Authentication of Aadhaar Mapping to Nodal Office User ID
iii. Status view for Aadhaar Mapping
iv. Procedure for regular (Aadhaar-based) access to CRA system