The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has rolled out the Vishwas Scheme, a new initiative aimed at reducing litigation related to delayed provident fund payments and easing settlement of old disputes. The scheme is part of EPFO’s broader 2025 reform package to simplify processes, improve transparency, and promote voluntary compliance.
Key Highlights: Objective, Coverage
- Objective: To resolve long-pending legal cases and disputes over penal damages (Section 14B) for delayed PF remittances through a simplified, one-time settlement process.
Rationalised Penalty Structure:
- 0.25% per month for delays up to 2 months
- 0.50% per month for delays up to 4 months
- 1% per month for longer delays
- This replaces the earlier 5–25% per annum penalty range.
Coverage:
- Ongoing litigation in courts or tribunals
- Finalised but unpaid penalty orders
- Cases where notices have been issued but final orders are pending
- Validity: The Vishwas Scheme will be open for six months, with the possibility of extension by another six months.
- Outcome: Once dues are paid under the scheme, the related legal cases will stand abated (considered settled), ending years of disputes.
- Part of Larger Reform Package: The Vishwas Scheme complements other EPFO reforms—such as 100% withdrawal flexibility, digital process upgrades, and doorstep pension services—to improve efficiency and reduce delays.
Benefits
- Reduces legal burden for employers and EPFO.
- Encourages faster settlements and improves compliance.
- Promotes transparency through fixed, predictable penalties.
- Helps EPFO recover dues quickly and improve fund health.
Conclusion
The Vishwas Scheme marks a major step toward making EPFO operations more efficient, transparent, and member-friendly. By cutting litigation and rationalising penalties, it fosters trust (“Vishwas”) between employers, employees, and the EPFO—strengthening India’s social security system.
FAQs
1. What is the main goal of the Vishwas Scheme?
Ans: To settle long-pending EPFO penalty disputes under Section 14B and reduce court cases through simplified payment and settlement.
2. Who can apply for the scheme?
Ans: Employers or establishments with ongoing or finalised penalty cases related to delayed PF contributions.
3. How long will the scheme remain open?
Ans: Initially for six months, with a possible six-month extension.
4. What happens after payment under the scheme?
Ans: Once the penalty is paid as per the new rates, the related legal case is considered closed.
5. What are the new penalty rates?
Ans: 0.25% per month (up to 2 months delay), 0.50% per month (up to 4 months), and 1% per month (beyond 4 months).
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