The overhaul, modelled on Passport Seva Kendras, aims to extend social security coverage to nearly 100 crore citizens by March 2026. A pilot has already begun in Delhi.
Speaking at the inauguration of a new EPFO building in Vatva, Gujarat, Mandaviya said the shift ends the earlier restriction requiring visits only to the regional office linked to the employer.
Digital integration will enable seamless access from the nearest centre. To assist those unfamiliar with online processes, the government plans to appoint authorised ‘EPF Facility Providers’ for hands-on help with claims and filings.
The minister also launched a mission-mode drive to complete KYC for millions of inoperative accounts, with a dedicated platform to trace holders or heirs and release stuck funds securely.
Addressing overseas workers, Mandaviya noted future Free Trade Agreements will include social security clauses—similar to the India-UK pact—ensuring PF contributions abroad remain claimable upon return.
He highlighted EPFO's ₹28 lakh crore corpus, backed by government guarantee and offering 8.25% interest, as fully secure.
Social security coverage has risen from 19% pre-2014 to 64% now, benefiting 94 crore people. Mandaviya stressed India’s ambition to lead globally after China in extending protections.
The reforms promise faster, more accessible services for the country’s growing workforce.
