EPS-95 defines the Employees’ Pension Scheme that has been engaged in being a pillar of retirement for millions of private-sector employees. It was built in 1995. The monthly pension must be a minimum of ₹1,000 and this minimum pension of EPS-95 has been kept constant since 2014. Meanwhile, there has been an ever-increasing pressure to enhance it to ₹7,500 from all corners—the pensioners, labor unions—with reasons being rising prices.
The Demand For Pension Upgradation
At the forefront of this movement is the EPS-95 National Agitation Committee for 78 lakh pensioners. In January 2025, a committee delegation met with the Finance Minister, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, during pre-budget consultations, making a case for a minimum pension of ₹7,500 along with DA, and demanded free medical treatment for pensioners and their spouses. The Finance Minister assured the delegation that their demands would be sympathetic.
Divergent Opinions Among The Stakeholders
With all the pensioners being united in demanding a minimum pension of ₹7,500, the trade unions have discussed a lower hike of ₹5,000 per month. Pensioners’ groups have criticized trade union leaders, countering that this proposal does not truly address the deterioration of pensioners’ living standards.
The Official Position And Possible Change
With these demands acknowledged, the government has shown hints that it may be considering a pension increase. Reports are there about the Union Budget being likely to provide for raising the minimum EPS pension to ₹7,500 citeturn0search3. Additionally, a Standing Committee of Parliament on Labour has also recommended a revision of the minimum pension on the grounds of rising costs of living since 2014.
Effects Of A Proposed Increase
This hike to ₹7,500, or an increase in the minimum pension, would go a long way into revitalizing the economic well-being of the pensioners, who would find a better stand against day-to-day expenses and healthcare. However, this also brings into question a related issue of finances and administration. Such a hike entails much funding, demanding increased contribution from employers as well as employees, and delicate policy adjustment to guarantee the EPFO funds’ sustainability.
Conclusion
The EPS-95 minimum pension proposal to be raised to ₹7,500 has found much support among pensioners and some labor groups. While the government seems open to talking about the demands, much remains uncertain. Pensioners all across the country look up to the Union Budget in anticipation of reforms that would secure them a better and dignified life of retirement.
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