Mangaluru: As part of the central government’s efforts to boost employment, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme, which is expected to generate between 20,000 and 25,000 jobs in Dakshina Kannada district. This was announced by Regional Provident Fund Commissioner Rajib Mukherjee during a press briefing held in Mangaluru on Monday.

The scheme aims to benefit 2,500 to 3,000 employment establishments within the jurisdiction of the EPFO’s Mangaluru regional office. Awareness camps and outreach sessions are being organised to ensure effective implementation and encourage participation.

According to Mukherjee, the ELI scheme targets job creation across sectors, with a special focus on the manufacturing industry. It is designed to improve both employment opportunities and social security coverage for workers.

Incentives for both employees and employers

The scheme offers incentives to both employees and employers. First-time employees earning up to Rs 15,000 per month are eligible to receive EPF wage contributions in two instalments under the incentive framework. Employers who create new jobs will receive incentives for a period of two years.

Incentives for establishments in the manufacturing sector will be extended for an additional two years, making it a total of four years of support.

Target: 3.5 crore jobs in two years

The ELI scheme was introduced as part of a five-scheme package announced in the Union Budget 2024–25 by the Prime Minister. It sets an ambitious target of creating employment for 3.5 crore youth over two years.

The benefits of the scheme will apply to jobs created between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027.

Eligibility criteria

Employees drawing a monthly salary of up to Rs 1 lakh will be eligible under the scheme. Employers hiring such employees will receive monthly incentives of up to Rs 3,000 per new hire for two years, provided the job remains stable for at least six months.

Additionally, employers in the manufacturing sector will be eligible for extended incentives during the third and fourth years.

The press conference was attended by senior officials including U. Panduranga Kini, Nagendra Babu Gutti, Benny Lobo, and Anita R.