Mansukh Mandaviya Directs EPFO Officials to Streamline Claim Settlement and Improve Grievance Redressal

Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently instructed EPFO officials to enhance the claim settlement process and ensure grievances are addressed promptly. During a virtual review meeting, he emphasised adopting a public-friendly approach. The meeting assessed the performance of EPFO's regional offices, with Union Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra, Central Provident Commissioner Ramesh Krishnamurthi, and other senior officers in attendance.

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Mandaviya highlighted the importance of the Pension on Higher Wages (PoHW) scheme and grievance redressal. He urged officials to expedite PoHW case resolutions by following recent EPFO clarifications. The minister also stressed the need for thorough preparation for the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme to ensure its effective implementation.

Focus on Service Improvement

The review aimed to improve claim settlement efficiency, reduce rejections, activate Universal Account Numbers (UAN), and implement the PoHW Scheme. Dawra informed the minister about recent initiatives like simplifying joint declarations and removing employer requirements for PF account transfers. These efforts aim to enhance service delivery.

Krishnamurthi presented a detailed report on the performance of EPFO’s zonal offices. Officers in charge shared their experiences and plans for better service delivery with the minister. Mandaviya stressed that zones and regional offices lagging in performance must focus on improving service delivery, highlighting accountability and good governance.

Enhancing Work Culture

The minister directed senior EPFO officials to visit field offices to review work and prepare improvement plans. This initiative aims to enhance EPFO's work culture. Mandaviya encouraged EPFO to elevate service quality and efficiency, thereby improving ease of living and transparency for members.

He urged officers to administer services with integrity and empathy for members. The next review meeting of EPFO field offices is scheduled for February 2025, where progress will be further assessed. This ongoing evaluation underscores the commitment to improving member services continuously.