Thousands of retired employees covered under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), 1995 have intensified their appeal to the government for a significant increase in the minimum monthly pension. Currently set at ₹1,000 per month, the pension amount has been widely criticized as insufficient to meet basic living expenses, especially in light of rising inflation and medical costs. Pensioners’ associations across the country have been rallying, stating that the current amount falls short of offering a dignified post-retirement life.

Pensioners argue that despite decades of service and contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), the benefits they receive are far below expectations. Many are demanding a raise to at least ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per month, citing recommendations made by various parliamentary committees and social security experts. They emphasize that this increase is not just a financial adjustment, but a necessary step toward social justice and economic security for the elderly population dependent on EPS.

In response, government officials have acknowledged the issue and assured that the matter is under active review, though no official decision has been announced. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is expected to conduct further actuarial assessments and consult the Ministry of Labour and Employment on possible revisions. As pressure mounts from pensioners’ forums and public interest groups, a policy shift may soon be considered to address the growing demand for pension reform in India’s formal sector retirement framework.