Labor Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has taken a positive stance on the long-pending demands of 78 lakh EPS-95 pensioners across the country. These demands include an increase in the minimum pension, provision of free medical facilities for pensioners and their spouses, and rectification of errors in applications for higher pension benefits. The Minister assured the delegation of a swift resolution to these issues.

Commander Ashok Raut, National President of the EPS-95 National Agitation Committee (NAC), which has been advocating for pensioners' rights for several years, revealed that recent discussions with both the Labor Minister and the Finance Minister provided assurances of an imminent increase in the minimum pension. However, the absence of any such announcement in the Union Budget 2025-26 has led to widespread disappointment among pensioners.

In light of this, a crucial meeting between the Labor Minister and a delegation from the NAC was scheduled for February 20. However, due to travel constraints faced by committee representatives, the meeting was held today at 2:30 PM at the Labor Ministry. The delegation included National President Commander Ashok Raut, National General Secretary Virendra Singh Rajawat, and National Secretary Ramesh Bahuguna.

During the discussions, Labor Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing pensioners' concerns. He acknowledged the delays but assured that their demands would be met. "Our government is dedicated to improving the lives of senior citizens. Necessary reforms are being actively considered, including enhanced medical facilities and a comprehensive review of the higher pension issue," he stated.

Despite these reassurances, the delegation emphasized that pensioners are growing increasingly frustrated with repeated assurances without concrete action. They urged the government to take decisive and swift measures to fulfill their long-standing demands.