Question : EMPLOYEES UNDER EPF

(a) the estimated number of employees presently covered under Employees` Provident Fund (EPF), State/UT-wise;

(b) whether the Government has any proposal to ease the eligibility norms to benefit the beneficiaries;

(c) if so, the details thereof and the time by which the said proposal is likely to be implemented;

(d) whether it is also proposed to enhance employers` contribution under EPF and also to enlarge the scope of the term `employee`;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) whether the Government has also approved the proposal for appointing fund managers for a period of three years and If so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE(IC) FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI BANDARU DATTATREYA)

(a) : As on 30.09.2014, there were 131041443 members of the EPF. The State/UT-wise details of employees covered under the Fund are at Annex.

(b) & (c): The ceiling has already been enhanced from Rs. 6,500/- per month to Rs. 15,000/- per month w.e.f 01.09.2014 for coverage under the Employees’ Provident Funds & Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 to apply the Act to more employees.

(d) : No, Madam.

(e) : Does not arise in view of reply to part (d) of the Question above.

(f) : The process of appointment of fund managers for a period of three years w.e.f 01.04.2015 is under consideration.