The Press Information Bureau reported on 31 October 2026 that India has expanded its social security framework, increasing coverage from 19% in 2015 to 68.4% in 2026. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) increased the mandatory coverage wage ceiling to ₹25,000 per month in September 2026, which is expected to include over 51 lakh more employees. New digital reforms include automated claim settlements for amounts up to ₹5 lakh and a redesigned website launched in November 2025. Other initiatives like the e-Shram portal and Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana provide support to unorganised workers and vulnerable groups.
Key points
- Wage ceiling for mandatory EPFO coverage raised to ₹25,000 per month as of September 2026.
- Auto-settlement limit for eligible advance claims increased to ₹5 lakh.
- AMNESTY 2026 scheme for regularising PF trusts is open until 28 December 2026.
- Social protection coverage grew to 68.4% in 2026, covering over one billion people.
- PM-SYM provides a minimum assured pension of ₹3,000 per month for eligible unorganised workers.
When it applies
- AMNESTY 2026 scheme application window
- Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana duration
- Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana duration
Who it affects
- employees
- employers
Refers to
- Social Security Code, 2020
- EPF & Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952