Pensioners from all over India are preparing for a major demonstration in New Delhi. The EPS-95 National Agitation Committee (NAC) has announced a three-day protest at Jantar Mantar starting from March 9. This nationwide agitation aims to press the government for a significant increase in the monthly minimum pension.
What are the main demands of the pensioners?
The primary demand of the protesting group is to raise the minimum monthly pension to ₹7,500. Currently, the minimum pension stands at ₹1,000, which the committee argues is insufficient for survival in the current economic climate. The average payout for many is only around ₹1,171 despite decades of service.
Alongside the hike in the base amount, the pensioners are asking for the inclusion of Dearness Allowance (DA). They are also demanding free medical facilities for retirees and their spouses. For those currently excluded from the EPS-95 scheme, the committee is seeking a monthly coverage of ₹5,000.
Why is the protest happening now?
The timing of this protest coincides with the second phase of the Budget Session of Parliament. Commander Ashok Raut, the National President of the NAC, stated that this is a ‘do or die’ situation for many elderly citizens. The organization claims that an average of 200 to 250 pensioners are dying daily due to a lack of funds for medical care and basic needs.
Protesters are also highlighting the Supreme Court ruling from November 4, 2022, urging for its equitable implementation. While the Ministry of Labour has previously acknowledged these demands, they have cited financial deficits as a barrier. Approximately 8.1 million pensioners from various sectors including public sector units and private mills are expected to be represented in this agitation.
