Central Government has notified the VISHWAS 2026', effective 29.06.2026, providing eligible establishments a one-time opportunity to settle damages payable under Section 14B of the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 / Section 128 of the Code on Social Security, 2020 at substantially reduced rates.

 

The eligible establishments are those which fall within the purview of the Scheme under the following category :

1. Orders under Section 14B challenged before CGIT / High Court / Supreme Court (Ongoing Litigation)

2. Orders under Section 14B issued and damages remaining unpaid / partially paid

3. Notice under Section 14B issued; final order yet to be passed 

4. Defaults identifiable; notice under Section 14B of the Act / Section 128 of the Code, yet to be issued

The Scheme provides for damages at reduced rates of 0.25% to 1.00% per month (against the standard rate of up to 25% per annum), depending on the period of default. This is a time-bound scheme, valid for six (6) months only from the date of notification. 

The following cases are specifically excluded from the Vishwas, 2026:

(a)   Establishments where damages have been fully recovered.

(b)   Cases involving fraud, misappropriation, or deliberate falsification of records.

(c)   Cases where interest under dispute has not been fully remitted.

 

To avail the benefit of the Scheme, you are requested to:

1. Ensure that the entire interest amount due under Section 7Q of the Act / Section 127 of the Code, for the period of default, is fully remitted, if not already done. This is a mandatory pre-condition for eligibility.

2. Log in to the EPFO Employer Portal at https://unifiedportal-emp.epfindia.gov.in and navigate to the 'Vishwas' module.

3. Submit your application online using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or e-Sign of the authorised signatory, along with the required documents.

4. Upon submission, a unique Application ID will be generated. The revised damage amount will be communicated to you electronically by the concerned Regional Office. 

5. The revised amount must be deposited within 15 days of communication of the offer.

 

Upon full payment, a Certificate will be issued by this office. This Certificate may be submitted before the competent Court / CGIT for withdrawal/abatement of the pending case, bringing the dispute to a complete and final close.

 

Please note that non-availing of the Scheme within the stipulated window will result in continuation of original proceedings under the Act / Code, including recovery of damages at standard rates, enforcement of RRC proceedings, and other legal consequences.

For any query or assistance, please contact the Regional Office:

Nodal Officer: Smt Reena Menon: RPFC-II  

Phone: 9446570242 Email: ro.kochi@epfindia.gov.in

 

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