To expand the social security net for workers, accelerate on-ground implementation of policy reforms, and reinforce administrative transparency, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) conducted a series of key review meetings, outreach conventions, and high-level deliberations across Chhattisgarh. Led by Shri Shikhar Sharma, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, Zonal Office Bhopal, these engagements covered field-level activities in Bilaspur, Dhamtari, and Raipur, alongside inter-departmental coordination at the state government level.

Extensive public awareness programs under the 'Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana' (PM-VBRY) were formally launched at Bilaspur on October 07 and Mennonite School, Dhamtari on October 08. In direct interactions with employers and employees, technical facets and benefits of EPFO's flagship initiatives—including the 'Vishwas' amnesty scheme, the Employees' Enrolment Campaign (EEC) 2025, and PM-VBRY—were presented in detail. The sessions highlighted the landmark amendment effective from September 17, 2026, which raised the wage ceiling for PF contribution deductions from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, bringing lakhs of workers in the state under enhanced social security coverage.

A high-level administrative review session at the Regional Office, Raipur focused on optimizing digital service delivery and expediting pension disbursements. A point-by-point assessment was carried out regarding the rollout of 'Tatpar Portal 2.0', PM-VBRY progress, and the 'Prayaas' initiative designed to ensure prompt benefits for retiring subscribers. The meeting was attended by Shri Jayavadan Ingle, Officer-in-Charge and Regional PF Commissioner-1, Raipur, Shri Dasarathi Nag, Regional PF Commissioner-2, and Shri Gaurav Dogra, Regional PF Commissioner-2. Furthermore, Shri Sharma graced the concluding ceremony of 'Rajbhasha Pakhwada' as Chief Guest, felicitating officers and staff who excelled in various competitions during the fortnight.

As part of the outreach and institutional coordination, a courtesy meeting was held with the Hon’ble Minister for Commerce & Industry, Commercial Tax (Excise), and Labour, Government of Chhattisgarh, Shri Lakhan Lal Dewangan. The discussion centered on recent policy reforms, worker registration drives, and collaborative measures to expand social security coverage across the state. Expressing gratitude to the Minister for the grand execution of the PM-VBRY event organized on June 19, 2026, the discussions underscored continuous synergy between the State Labour Department and EPFO for future worker welfare initiatives.

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RDJ/PJ

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