- Mandaviya unveils next-generation EPFO reforms focused on ease, trust and universality
- Technology-enabled EPFO offices to offer passport-style, single-window services nationwide
- EPF Suvidha Providers to bridge digital gaps and guide members at the grassroots
- Mission-mode KYC drive to unlock workers’ money stuck in inoperative accounts
- Social security clauses in FTAs to protect Indian workers abroad and on return
- India to cover 100 crore citizens under social security by March 2026
R MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, DEC 26
In a landmark moment underscoring India’s social security transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the newly constructed Bhavishya Nidhi Bhawan of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) at Vatva, Gujarat.
The inauguration marks another milestone in the Government of India’s mission to build a technology-driven, citizen-first EPFO, aligned with the broader Digital India vision and the goal of universal social security coverage.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya described the new EPFO building as more than physical infrastructure.
“The new building is not merely physical infrastructure but an ‘Aastha Ka Kendra’, a symbol of trust,” he said.
Highlighting EPFO’s pivotal role in nation-building, he noted,
“EPFO today holds a fund corpus of ₹28 lakh crore and provides 8.25% annual interest. If workers’ money is with EPFO, it carries the guarantee of the Government of India.”
Calling the office a “Shramik Ka Mandir”, he added,
“Only when we work with integrity, rooted in values, will we truly honour the Shram Shakti of our nation.”
Next-Generation EPFO: One Nation, One Service Window
Announcing sweeping reforms, the Union Minister said EPFO offices across the country are being redeveloped into modern, technology-enabled, passport-seva-kendra-style single-window service centres. This will allow citizens to resolve any EPF-related issue at any EPFO regional office, irrespective of their place of employment or residence.
He informed that a pilot is already underway in Delhi, adding that beneficiaries will soon be free from office-specific dependencies, marking a decisive shift towards “anywhere service delivery”.
EPF Suvidha Providers: Human Touch to Digital Governance
To enhance accessibility, especially for first-time users and workers unfamiliar with digital systems, Dr. Mandaviya announced the introduction of EPF Suvidha Providers.
These authorised facilitators will guide members in accessing EPFO benefits and resolving issues, acting as a vital bridge between citizens and the organisation and ensuring that digital transformation remains inclusive.
Mission-Mode KYC Drive to Unlock Inoperative Accounts
Addressing the issue of workers’ funds lying unclaimed, the Minister announced a mission-mode KYC verification drive for inoperative EPF accounts. A dedicated digital platform will be launched to enable simplified claim filing and hassle-free settlement to rightful claimants, ensuring that hard-earned savings are returned to workers and their families.
Global Protection for Indian Workers Through FTAs
Dr. Mandaviya also revealed that going forward, India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) will incorporate social security protection provisions.
This will ensure that Indian workers employed abroad can retain their provident fund contributions and access benefits even after returning to India, as already reflected in agreements such as the India–UK FTA.
India’s Social Security Leap: From 19% to 64% Coverage
Highlighting the transformational journey over the past 11 years, Dr. Mandaviya said,
“Before 2014, as per ILO, India had only 19% social security coverage. Today, this has risen to 64%, with international organisations like the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and International Social Security Association (ISSA) commending India’s progress.”
He added, “Today, 94 crore people are covered under social security protection, making India the second-largest in the world in social security coverage after China. By March 2026, India will ensure coverage for 100 crore citizens.”
Economic Resilience and Employment Generation
Speaking on India’s post-pandemic performance, the Minister noted,
“When the economy grows, income, consumption and manufacturing accelerate, leading to stronger employment generation. India’s unemployment rate today is only 3.2%, far lower than many countries.”
He highlighted EPFO’s simplified, tech-led processes, including automatic settlements up to ₹5 lakh, seamless account transfers, and easy withdrawals of up to 75% of EPF balances.
During the event, establishments contributing significantly to job creation under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY) were felicitated. The scheme aims to incentivise 3.5 crore new jobs over the next two years.
Modern, Eco-Friendly EPFO Infrastructure
The Vatva EPFO office serves six districts of Gujarat and currently oversees 7,013 contributing establishments, 3,97,676 contributory members, and nearly 21,000 pensioners.
Constructed at a cost of ₹10.12 crore, the new Bhavishya Nidhi Bhawan features solar power, rainwater harvesting, centralised air-conditioning, power backup, underground parking, and enhanced accessibility for pensioners and differently-abled citizens. Its strategic location near NH-48, Metro and BRTS connectivity ensures seamless access for subscribers.
