The year 2025 has brought important updates to the Employees’ Pension Scheme 1995 (EPS-95), giving much-needed relief and hope to lakhs of pensioners. These changes aim to improve the financial security and quality of life for retired employees who have been struggling with low pensions for many years.
Demand to Increase Minimum Pension
EPS-95 pensioners have been demanding an increase in the minimum pension from ₹1,000 to ₹7,500 for a long time. In January 2025, representatives from the EPS-95 National Movement Committee met Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and shared their demands. They also requested Dearness Allowance (DA) and free medical treatment for pensioners. The Finance Minister assured them that their demands would be considered sympathetically.
Relief for Pensioners
A proposal is under review to increase the minimum monthly pension under EPS-95 to ₹7,500. This step is aimed at helping pensioners cope with rising inflation and the high cost of living. The introduction of Dearness Allowance along with the pension will further improve their monthly income and offer greater stability in their lives.
Financial Impact and Challenges
Raising the minimum pension and introducing DA will increase the government’s financial burden, but officials say a new budget allocation will be made to support this. The goal is to ensure that pensioners can live a dignified and secure life after retirement. These changes show the government’s willingness to invest in the well-being of the elderly workforce.
Pensioners’ Protest and Support
Lakhs of EPS-95 pensioners recently gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, under the leadership of the EPS-95 National Movement Committee, to press their demands. They also made it clear that if their issues remain unresolved, they may support political parties that promise to solve their problems. This protest highlights the urgency and importance of the pension reforms.
Conclusion
The proposed changes under the EPS-95 Pension Scheme 2025 could greatly improve the lives of pensioners by ensuring financial support and healthcare benefits. The increase in pension and the addition of DA would help pensioners live with dignity and independence. The government’s response to these demands will be closely watched by millions of elderly citizens across India.
