New Delhi, March 7: Pensioners from across the nation are set to gather at Jantar Mantar for a three-day protest from March 9 to March 11, calling for a hike in the minimum pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS-95). The demonstration, organized by the EPS-95 National Agitation Committee (NAC), will take place during the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament. The protest will be led by Commander Ashok Raut, National President of the committee.

The NAC claims that nearly 81 lakh pensioners in India depend on the EPS-95 scheme, which is managed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Despite contributing to the pension fund for 30-35 years, the average monthly pension remains as low as ₹1,171. Pensioners from a variety of sectors, including central and state government departments, public sector undertakings, cooperative institutions, private businesses, mills, and media organizations, have long been advocating for improved pension benefits.

For almost a decade, the NAC has been campaigning for pension reforms, submitting representations to the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, and MPs from all political parties. The committee has raised concerns about the financial hardships faced by retirees due to meager pensions and inadequate medical facilities.

Commander Ashok Raut stressed that many retirees are struggling to cover even basic daily expenses due to the insufficient pensions. "We have been fighting for pensioners' rights for nearly ten years. We urge the government and MPs to urgently address the critical issues faced by EPS-95 pensioners," he said.

A large contingent of pensioners from various states is expected to join the protest in Delhi, amplifying the demand for immediate pension reforms.