EPS-95 Update: When the morning begins with news of rising tea prices and buying vegetable leaves both your wallet and heart heavy, the question naturally arises: how are the elderly managing to survive?
Millions of EPS-95 pensioners in the country are still forced to live on a meagre monthly pension of just ₹1000. These are the very people who spent their entire youth toiling in the country’s factories, offices, and institutions, but in their old age, all they have received is empty promises.
The long-standing demand to increase EPS-95 pensions
The demand regarding EPS-95 pensions is not new. For years, pensioners have been appealing for an increase in the minimum pension to ₹7,500 and for it to be linked to the inflation index. Their argument is simple: when inflation is rising every year, why should the pension amount remain stagnant? Necessities like milk, pulses, medicines, and medical treatment are becoming more expensive every month, but the pension remains unchanged.
The issue raised in Parliament and the government’s official stance
In February 2026, this issue was discussed in Parliament, and the government for the first time openly presented its position. During this discussion in the Lok Sabha, the government stated that the minimum pension of ₹1000 was fixed in 2014. At that time, this amount was considered somewhat adequate, but in the intervening years, inflation has increased manifold. Despite this, there has been no change in the pension because the EPS-95 pension is neither linked to the inflation index nor to the cost of living.
The government cites a fund crunch as the main reason
The government says it understands the emotional aspect behind this demand, but technical and financial constraints are proving to be obstacles. Regarding the status of the EPS-95 fund, the government clarified that if the minimum pension is directly increased to ₹7,500 and dearness allowance (DA) is also added, it will put immense pressure on the fund. According to the government, managing such a large increase with the existing resources is not easy, and it could lead to a crisis in the pension system in the future.
Pensioners’ disappointment and the reality of basic needs
This response has only deepened the disappointment of the pensioners. They argue that when employees contribute regularly during their working lives, they should receive a pension after retirement that allows them to live a dignified life. The amount of ₹1000 today is insufficient to cover even basic medical expenses or daily necessities. Many elderly people are forced to depend on their families, which hurts their self-respect.
Why linking pensions to dearness allowance is crucial
EPS-95 pensioners also argue that if the pension is linked to the dearness allowance, the government wouldn’t need to bear an additional burden every year. The pension would automatically increase with inflation, and the elderly wouldn’t have to resort to repeated protests or appeals. This could be a permanent solution, providing pensioners with security and ensuring the system remains balanced.
Is there any hope for an increase in EPS-95 pensions in the future?
The government has indicated that the issue is not being completely ignored. According to officials, the status of the EPS-95 fund, contributions, and future needs are being assessed. However, no concrete decision or date has been announced yet. This is why pensioners remain anxious and are organising themselves to continue raising their voices.
The elderly’s hope for dignity and security
One thing is clear in this entire matter: it’s not just a question of money, but a matter of dignity and security. At an age when people need peace and stability, if they are constantly worried about monthly expenses, it raises questions about the system. The hopes of EPS-95 pensioners are still alive, and they want the government to look at their situation not just from a statistical perspective, but from a human perspective as well.
What lies ahead?
In the coming times, it will be crucial to see whether the government can find a balanced solution between the funding crisis and the needs of the elderly. Until then, EPS-95 pensioners are waiting, hoping that the dawn of financial relief will arrive in their lives.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available information and public discussions. Any final decision regarding pensions will depend on an official notification from the government. Readers are advised to verify information from official sources before making any financial or pension-related decisions.
Also Read:
PM Kisan Yojana: Add Your Name Before The Next ₹2000 Installment
Ladli Behna Yojana: Know when the remaining ₹250 will be credited to women’s accounts.
