Government Promises to Address Pensioners' Demands

The government has assured 78 lakh pensioners seeking a minimum monthly pension of Rs 7,500 that their demands will be considered. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya conveyed this after meeting representatives from the EPS-95 National Agitation Committee following their protest. The pensioners argue that the current pension is insufficient.

The government has assured 78 lakh pensioners demanding a minimum monthly pension of Rs 7,500 that their concerns will be addressed, according to the EPS-95 National Agitation Committee (NAC).

In a statement, the pensioners' body revealed that Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya met with representatives, promising necessary steps to meet their demands.

The meeting followed a protest in the national capital where members from various parts of the country advocated for a higher pension to replace the current average of Rs 1,450. The NAC highlighted that 3.6 million pensioners receive less than Rs 1,000 per month.

Committee president Ashok Raut emphasized, "Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya assured that the government is serious about resolving our issues. The Prime Minister is equally committed."

Despite long-term contributions to the pension fund, pensioners suffer from inadequate pensions, which make survival challenging for elderly couples, Raut noted.

He further insisted on increasing pensions to Rs 7,500 with dearness allowance and free health facilities for the pensioners' spouses.

Raut also mentioned support from opposition MPs, including Congress and NCP's Sharad Pawar, who met with NAC members assuring backing for their demands.

Though 7.8 million pensioners have been pushing for a higher minimum pension for eight years, their demands remain unmet, he added.

The EPS-95 National Agitation Committee, comprising 78 lakh retired pensioners and 7.5 crore working employees from industrial sectors, is headquartered in Maharashtra.

(With inputs from agencies.)