EPFO May Consider Min Pension Hike in CBT Meeting on Nov 19

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) may consider increasing the minimum monthly pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) at its November 19, 2026, Central Board of Trustees (CBT) meeting. The minimum pension has remained unchanged at ₹1,000 per month since September 2014.

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The proposed revision comes amid long-standing demands from pensioners’ organisations and trade unions, which have sought an increase to ₹7,500 per month along with Dearness Allowance (DA).

According to media reports, issue is likely to come up during the 240th CBT meeting. However, the detailed agenda has not yet been finalised, and no official decision on increasing the pension has been announced.

EPFO Meeting Shifted to New Delhi

The 240th CBT meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2026. While it was initially planned in Gir, Gujarat, subsequent reports indicate that the venue has been shifted to EPFO headquarters in East Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi.

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The meeting is expected to discuss important matters concerning EPFO members and pensioners. The possible revision of the minimum EPS pension has drawn attention because of the long gap since the last increase.

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Some media reports have also suggested that the government may consider increasing the minimum monthly pension from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000. However, neither the Ministry of Labour and Employment nor the Finance Ministry has officially confirmed this proposal.

Why Are Pensioners Demanding a Pension Hike?

The minimum monthly pension under EPS was introduced in September 2014. Since then, pensioners’ associations and trade unions have repeatedly sought a revision, stating that the existing amount is insufficient to meet rising living and healthcare expenses.

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Their key demands include:

• Minimum pension of ₹7,500: Pensioners’ organisations have demanded an increase from the existing ₹1,000 per month.
• Dearness Allowance: They have also sought DA along with the minimum monthly pension to help pensioners manage rising living costs.
• Government support: Pensioners have called for higher financial support to improve retirement security.

The minimum EPS pension is currently ₹1,000 per month, supported by government budgetary assistance. Any revision will require an official government decision.

The November 19 meeting could provide further clarity on the long-pending demand. However, pensioners should wait for an official announcement before treating any proposed increase as approved.