The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has reported a substantial surge in new establishment registrations from the financial year 2019-20 to 2023-24.
This upward trend reflects the success of government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting business formalization and generating employment opportunities across India.
Impressive Growth Figures
The EPFO’s data reveals a remarkable trajectory:
- 2019-20: The number of new establishments registered stood at 117,063.
- 2020-21: The figure nearly doubled, reaching 246,104.
- 2021-22: The growth continued, with 269,295 new establishments.
- 2022-23: Despite challenges, registrations remained robust at 257,470.
- 2023-24: Above all, the latest data shows an impressive 294,256 new establishments joining the EPFO fold.
Digitization and Grievance Redressal Measures
Online and Offline Grievance Channels: To enhance efficiency and service delivery, the government has implemented several digital initiatives and grievance redressal mechanisms. Workers can now lodge complaints through both online and offline modes.
Portals like CPGRAMS, EPFIGMS, and the UMANG app facilitate online submissions. Additionally, grievances can be sent via physical letters (DAKs) or in-person visits to EPFO offices. Meanwhile, Public Relations Officers have been appointed to ensure timely resolution.
NIDHI AAPKE NIKAT: This grassroots initiative aims to address workers’ problems promptly. EPFO representatives engage directly with workers in their localities, providing on-the-spot assistance.
Multilingual Call Centers: Although, EPFO’s call centers operate in Hindi, English, and ten vernacular languages, a few more multilingual call centres have been established. Unlike previously, this effort is making EPFO accessible to a diverse workforce.
Key Reforms Introduced by EPFO
Several reforms are boosting EPFO’s effectiveness:
- Auto Settlement of EPF Advance Claims: Simplifying access to funds for employees.
- E-nomination Special Drive: Encouraging members to update their nominations.
- EDLI/Pension Calculator: Providing clarity on benefits.
- Digital Life Certificate (DLC) Filing: Streamlining pension processes.
- Digi-locker Facility: Secure storage for EPF-related documents.
- NidhiApkeNIkat 2.0 Awareness Campaign: Spreading awareness about EPFO services.
- Face Recognition Technology for DLC: Enhancing security.
- Online Bulk Transfer Facility: Simplifying PF accumulation transfers.
- Auto Transfer of Accounts: Ensuring continuity for employees with one UAN allotment.
- Multi-location Claim Settlement: Facilitating mobility.
- UAN Self-generation: Empowering employees.
- E-pass Book: Easy access to account details.
- Joint Declaration for KYC Correction: Reducing paperwork.
- Aadhaar Seeding: Ensuring accurate member details.
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Prayaas Initiative by EPFO: PPO Handover
Additionally, under the Prayaas initiative, EPFO ensures that pension payment orders (PPOs) are handed over to retirees on the day of their retirement, streamlining the process and providing timely benefits.
This information was shared by the Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on July 29, 2024.
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