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Budget 2026: Good news may be in store for pensioners before Budget 2026. The government may take a major decision to increase the minimum pension under EPFO, which has been stuck at just Rs 1000 for the past 11 years. It is hoped that senior citizens will get significant relief in this budget session.

Budget 2026: In the upcoming budget on February 1, 2026, the government may take a big decision in favor of retired employees. Amidst the preparations for Budget 2026, discussions have intensified about whether the central government is preparing to increase the minimum pension provided under the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO). Although nothing is official yet, the activism of employee organizations has raised the hopes of pensioners.

The challenge of Rs 1000 in times of inflation

Currently, beneficiaries of the EPS-95 scheme receive a minimum monthly pension of Rs 1000.  It is noteworthy that this amount, fixed in 2014, has remained unchanged for the past 11 years. Considering the rising expenses and inflation, employee unions believe that this amount is extremely low. Now, all eyes are on whether the government will change this old structure in this budget.

Growing activity between the ministry and labor unions

Several organizations, including the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), have been putting pressure for a long time to increase the pension. In recent meetings with the Ministry of Labour, a proposal has been put forward to increase the minimum pension to Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000. Following the minister's assurance, it is being speculated that the government may present a concrete roadmap on this in the budget.

Court's decision and the government's dilemma

The issue of minimum pension is not only stuck at the budget stage but also before the Supreme Court. Considering the legal and economic aspects, experts believe the government is now under pressure to find a middle ground. If an announcement is made in the budget, it would be welcome news for pensioners, but for now, everyone will have to wait for the Finance Minister to unveil the budget proposals.

Will this eliminate the need to visit offices?

In addition to financial benefits, the EPFO ​​is working on a system that will spare senior citizens the hassle of running around to various offices. The plan is to allow pensioners to handle pension and PF-related tasks from the comfort of their homes through a user-friendly app. This initiative could be particularly helpful for pensioners who have difficulty understanding technology or navigating bureaucratic procedures.