An NPS subscriber is not satisfied with the Level 2 resolution by NPS Trust, and no reply has been received for a specified period. Beyond how many days of no reply at Level 2 can the subscriber approach the PFRDA Ombudsman?

Under the PFRDA (Redressal of Subscriber Grievance) Regulations 2015, the NPS grievance escalation mechanism operates in tiers. At Level 1, the intermediary must respond within 30 days. If unsatisfied, the complaint is escalated to Level 2 (NPS Trust). If no reply is received from Level 2 beyond 21 days, the subscriber is entitled to approach the Ombudsman appointed by PFRDA. The 21-day threshold at Level 2 is a specific regulatory provision distinct from the 30-day Level 1 timeline. This two-tier timeline structure — 30 days at Level 1 and 21 days at Level 2 — is a frequently examined aspect of PFRDA's subscriber protection framework.