Big news for EPFO members. EPFO pensioners in Nashik held a protest outside the Satpur office on Tuesday, advocating for an increase in their monthly pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 9,000.
In addition to this primary demand, they also called for a Dearness Allowance, access to free medical services from the government, and inclusion in the Food Security Act. The demonstration was spearheaded by Raju Desale, the founder president of the Nashik District EPFO Pensioners Federation.
Key demands of the EPFO pensioners
On Tuesday, EPFO pensioners from Nashik gathered outside the Satpur office to voice their concerns. Their foremost request is to raise their pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 9,000.
The protesters argue that this increase would more accurately reflect their years of contributions. They also seek a dearness allowance, free medical services, and inclusion in the Food Security Act.
A 15-year struggle
Raju Desale, the founder president of the Nashik District EPFO Pensioners Federation, stated that they have been appealing for a pension increase from the central government for the past 15 years without any favorable response. He expressed, “Surviving on a pension of Rs 1,000 is challenging. This protest aims to capture the attention of the central government.”
Status of EPFO Pensioners Nationwide
Across the country, there are around 8 million pensioners enrolled in the EPF 95 scheme, with 1.8 million residing in Maharashtra. This pension program serves employees from 186 different institutions. However, many pensioners are struggling due to the low pension amounts and rising inflation.
Additional Demands from Protesters
In addition to requesting a pension increase, the protesters have raised several other issues. They are calling for a Dearness Allowance, free government healthcare services, and inclusion in the Food Security Act. They believe these measures would significantly enhance their quality of life.