| EPFO achieves major milestones in J&K, Ladakh | | |  Early Times Report
JAMMU, Apr 3: The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has demonstrated remarkable progress in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh under the visionary leadership of PF Commissioner Syed Rizwanuddin. Despite limited resources and challenging circumstances, the Regional Office has achieved significant success in expanding membership, streamlining pension disbursement, enhancing income, and improving service delivery for members and pensioners alike.
Exceptional Growth in Membership:
Through targeted communication with Principal Employers and focused outreach in sectors like construction, railways, hospitality, and education, the EPFO office witnessed a surge in membership. The number of PF accounts rose from 3,60,849 in 2020 to 6,08,539 in 2024-25, marking a 22.97% increase - a clear indicator of growing trust and coverage.
Robust Outreach and Awareness Campaigns:
After a strategic review meeting on May 21, 2022, extensive outreach programs were launched across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Major national and regional platforms including Doordarshan, All India Radio, and private FM channels like Akashwani and Radio Mirchi played a vital role. Social media and print media in both Hindi and Urdu were actively engaged to educate the public about EPFO schemes and services.
Pension Delivery System Revamped Under 'Prayas':
Previously, pension disbursement was managed through the Amritsar office. However, since November 2021, this responsibility was shifted to the Jammu office. So far, 981 PPOs have been issued, with pensions now being disbursed on time every month. Digital Life Certificate updates and assistance with opening bank accounts were also facilitated, easing access for elderly pensioners.
E-Nomination: Jammu Among Top 3 Zonal Offices Nationwide:
Jammu Zone emerged among the top three zonal offices in the country in e-nomination performance. Out of 67,363 total nominations, 52,635 have already been completed. Webinars and seminars were held to promote awareness and boost enrolments.
Rise in EPFO Income:
Account No. 2 income saw steady growth - from Rs. 821 lakhs in 2021-22 to Rs. 967 lakhs in 2023-24, a growth rate of 7.09%, reflecting efficient financial management and expanding contributions.
Flexi-Hour Working and Efficient Claim Settlements:
Despite skeletal staff and limited technical facilities, the office continued working in flexi-hours to process claims efficiently. Settlements for RO Kashmir and DO Ladakh were also managed by the Jammu office due to operational constraints in those regions.
Massive Member Data Updates:
A total of 94,405 member records were updated through online, primary, and other channels, ensuring data accuracy and improved service delivery.
These accomplishments are a testament to the transformational leadership of Syed Rizwanuddin, under whom EPFO Jammu & Kashmir has evolved into a dynamic, responsive, and citizen-centric institution. His strategic oversight and commitment to service have elevated the institution's role in delivering social security to thousands across the region. |
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