Have you ever wondered how someone can survive in today’s world with just ₹1500 a month? Sadly, this is not a rare story it’s the reality for millions of retired employees in India who depend on the EPS-95 pension scheme.
A recent government report presented in Parliament has exposed just how serious this crisis is. It shows that despite decades of service, lakhs of pensioners under Employee Pension Scheme 1995 (EPS-95) are struggling with meager payouts that can’t even cover a week’s expenses.
The Shocking Numbers from EPS-95
According to the Ministry of Labour, as of 31 March 2025, there are 8.15 million (81.5 lakh) pensioners registered under EPS-95, managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
- Over 50% of pensioners (4.9 million people) get less than ₹1500 per month.
- Nearly 96% (7.87 million) get below ₹4000 per month.
- A staggering 99% (8.09 million) get less than ₹6000 per month.
- Only 0.65% (53,541 people) receive more than ₹6000 monthly.
Now think about it—can a retired person manage food, medicine, electricity bills, and basic living costs in today’s economy with such a small amount?
Why EPS-95 Pension Feels So Insufficient
When the EPS-95 scheme was launched, the idea was to give retired employees some level of financial security. But in 2025, with rising costs of healthcare, food, and rent, even ₹4000 per month feels painfully low.
Imagine someone who gave 30–35 years of their life to work. After retirement, instead of peace of mind, they’re forced to borrow money, depend on children, or cut down even on essentials. This isn’t just financial hardship—it’s about dignity.
Voices of Pensioners
- Across the country, EPS-95 pensioners have been raising their concerns for years. Many of them say:
- “The pension is so small, I can’t even buy my monthly medicines.”
- “We worked our whole lives, and now we’re living with less than the cost of a gas cylinder.”
- “How is it possible to run a household with ₹1500 in this time of inflation?”
- These stories are not just statistics. They’re a reflection of the pain and helplessness of lakhs of senior citizens.
The Demand for Higher Minimum Pension
Pensioners’ associations and unions have long been asking the government to raise the minimum pension under EPS-95. The common demand has been to fix it at ₹7500–₹10,000 per month, so that retirees can live with basic dignity.