Millions of pensioners covered under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) are awaiting a possible increase in their monthly pension. Reports circulating online suggest that the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) may consider raising the minimum monthly pension from ₹1,000 to ₹7,500 at an upcoming meeting of its Central Board of Trustees (CBT).
According to these reports, the board’s 240th meeting is scheduled for November 19 in Gir, Gujarat, where the demand for an increase in the minimum EPS pension may be discussed. However, the proposed hike should not be treated as officially approved unless confirmed through an official government or EPFO announcement.
Why Are Pensioners Demanding a ₹7,500 Minimum Pension?
The central government introduced a minimum monthly pension of ₹1,000 under the Employees’ Pension Scheme in September 2014. Since then, pensioner organisations and trade unions have repeatedly called for an increase, citing rising living costs.
Pensioners’ representatives argue that the existing amount is insufficient to meet essential household expenses and medical costs. They are demanding a minimum monthly pension of ₹7,500, along with a dearness allowance (DA), to provide greater financial support to retired employees.
The demand has remained an important issue for pensioner groups, which have continued to urge the government to review the current pension structure.
Salary Threshold Revision Raises Expectations
Recent discussions about changes to EPFO-related rules have added to expectations of a possible pension revision. The article’s reports also refer to an increase in the mandatory salary threshold for EPFO-covered employees from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per month.
Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has reportedly indicated that the government is reviewing relevant rules and taking a constructive approach towards the demands for a higher pension.
However, these developments do not, by themselves, confirm that the minimum EPS pension will be increased to ₹7,500. Pensioners will need to wait for an official decision.
November 19 EPFO Meeting in Focus
The proposed November 19 meeting in Gir, Gujarat, has attracted attention because it is expected to take place outside the EPFO headquarters in East Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi, marking a departure from the board’s usual meeting location after many years.
Pensioners and employee organisations will be watching for any developments regarding the minimum pension demand. Whether the board discusses the proposal or makes a decision will be clear only after official information becomes available.
For now, the proposed increase from ₹1,000 to ₹7,500 remains a matter of expectation rather than a confirmed change.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the reports and details available at the time of writing. The proposed increase in the minimum EPS pension has not been presented here as an officially approved decision. Readers should check official EPFO notifications and government announcements for verified updates before relying on any pension-related information.