EPS-95 Pension Update: Key Clarifications from EPFO on Minimum and Higher Pensions

If you’re an EPS-95 pensioner, there’s important news from the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). The ongoing demands for an increase in minimum pension and clarity on the higher pension scheme under EPS-95 have taken center stage. Here's the latest update and details from a recent meeting with EPFO officials.

Key Takeaways from the Recent Meeting

Discussion on Delays in Higher Pension Payments:
Pensioner Ranjeet Singh, during a detailed discussion with the Regional Provident Fund Commissioner (RPFC) in Udaipur, raised concerns over the prolonged delay in the implementation of higher pensions.

Challenges in Processing Pensions:

• The staff shortage at regional offices is causing operational delays.
• Technical hurdles, like the ₹15,000 salary ceiling, were highlighted as key barriers. These issues require intervention at the EPFO headquarters in New Delhi.

Resolution at Headquarters Level:
The RPFC clarified that these problems are tied to policy-level decisions and need resolution at the central PF office. Local offices have limited authority to act independently on such matters.

EPS-95 Higher Pension and Minimum Pension Updates

• Higher Pension Scheme:
  EPFO is addressing the technical and procedural challenges, but no timeline has been provided yet for the resolution.

• Minimum Pension Increase:
  Pensioners and organizations continue to demand an increase in the minimum pension amount. The issue is under active discussion, but clarity on any amendments or changes is awaited.

Next Steps for Pensioners

• Central Involvement Needed:
  The RPFC suggested that higher officials in New Delhi need to be approached for quicker resolutions.

• Engage with Advocacy Groups:
  Pensioners are encouraged to join organized efforts to amplify their concerns for faster action.

Why This Update Matters

The EPS-95 scheme impacts lakhs of pensioners who depend on timely and adequate pension disbursements. Delays in resolving these issues can have a significant financial impact on their livelihoods.

Stay tuned for further updates as discussions progress at the central level.