UP Journalists Push for Major EPFO Pension Increase
A delegation from the Uttar Pradesh Working Journalist Union (UPWJU) met with State Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar on Wednesday, strongly advocating for a significant boost in the minimum monthly pension provided by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). The union is demanding that the pension for retired private sector employees, which includes journalists, be raised from the current Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 per month.
Minister's Assurance and Union's Proposal
Minister Anil Rajbhar assured the delegation that he would soon meet with the Union Labour Minister to press for the changes requested. This proposal to seek the increase was formally passed during the union's recent provincial conference held in Ayodhya, highlighting its importance to the journalistic community in Uttar Pradesh.
Criticism of Current Pension Scheme
UPWJU President Hasib Siddiqui emphasized that the minimum pension of Rs 1,000 was established nearly 15 years ago and has not been revised since. He argued that this amount is inadequate, stating, "Various state governments are providing pensions of thousands of rupees to different societal groups, including women, while offering only Rs 1,000 to employees who dedicated decades to full-time employment is both laughable and unjust." This criticism underscores the growing disparity in pension benefits across sectors.
The union's demand reflects broader concerns about the financial security of retirees in the private sector, particularly in journalism, where job stability and benefits can be precarious. The move aims to align pension amounts with contemporary economic realities and ensure a dignified retirement for those who have contributed significantly to their fields.
