The Central Government has taken a major step towards bringing the country's employees under the ambit of social security. The Union Minister of Labor and Employment, Youth Affairs, and Sports launched the 'Employee's Enrolment Scheme-2025' on the 73rd Foundation Day of the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) in New Delhi. The scheme aims to promote voluntary compliance and cover employees who were previously excluded from the Provident Fund (EPF) system.

According to the Ministry of Labor, under this scheme, employers have been given a special opportunity to enroll eligible employees who were excluded from EPF coverage between July 1, 2017, and October 31, 2025. The scheme will be open for six months, from November 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026. During this period, employers can register their employees through the EPFO ​​portal and regularize past compliances.

Relief for Employers
According to the Ministry, employees' contributions under this scheme have been waived if they were not deducted earlier. Employers will only be required to pay their share of contributions, interest (under Section 7Q), administrative fees, and a symbolic penalty of ₹100. This one-time penalty of ₹100 per establishment will be considered full compliance for all three EPF schemes. The Ministry has described this as a step to enhance transparency and simplicity, thereby increasing voluntary participation.

Favor for Establishments Under Investigation
The government has also clarified that establishments facing investigations under Section 7A, Paragraph 26B, or Paragraph 8 (EPS-1995) can also apply under this scheme. They will only be charged a nominal loss charge, i.e., a symbolic penalty of ₹100. The EPFO ​​will not take suo motu action against any establishment, providing relief to employers and allowing them to rectify past irregularities.

Scheme for Social Security
This scheme will be a milestone in formalizing the workforce and strengthening social security in India. It will benefit millions of workers who were previously excluded from the EPF system. The government has stated that this step will strengthen the goal of "Social Security for All" and make every worker a part of India's organized social security system. This will make concrete progress towards transparency, accountability, and worker welfare.

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