EPFO doubles membership in J&K, Ladakh

Jammu, Apr 3: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has achieved remarkable progress in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh under the leadership of PF Commissioner Syed Rizwanuddin, overcoming resource limitations and challenging circumstances to deliver significant improvements across multiple operational areas.

Membership has surged impressively, with PF accounts increasing from 360,849 in 2020 to 608,539 in 2024-25 — representing a 22.97% growth that reflects expanding trust and coverage. This achievement stems from targeted communication with Principal Employers and focused outreach in key sectors including construction, railways, hospitality, and education.

Following a strategic review meeting on May 21, 2022, the office launched comprehensive outreach programs throughout the region, utilizing major platforms including Doordarshan, All India Radio, and private FM channels like Akashwani and Radio Mirchi. Social and print media in both Hindi and Urdu were leveraged to educate the public about EPFO schemes and services.

The pension delivery system underwent a complete transformation under the ‘Prayas’ initiative. Previously managed through the Amritsar office, this responsibility shifted to the Jammu office in November 2021. Since then, 981 PPOs have been issued with pensions now disbursed punctually each month. Additional services for elderly pensioners include assistance with Digital Life Certificate updates and bank account openings.

In e-nomination performance, Jammu Zone ranks among the top three zonal offices nationwide, with 52,635 completed nominations out of a total of 67,363. Webinars and seminars have been instrumental in promoting awareness and increasing enrolments.

The office has also demonstrated strong financial performance, with Account No. 2 income growing steadily from Rs. 821 lakhs in 2021-22 to Rs. 967 lakhs in 2023-24 — a growth rate of 7.09%, reflecting effective financial management and expanding contributions.

Despite operating with minimal staff and limited technical facilities, the office implemented flexi-hour working arrangements to process claims efficiently. The Jammu office has also managed settlements for RO Kashmir and DO Ladakh due to operational constraints in those regions.

Data management has seen substantial improvements with 94,405 member records updated through various channels, ensuring data accuracy and enhanced service delivery.