Context
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched Vishwas 2026, a one-time dispute resolution scheme to settle pending provident fund penalty and damages cases.
About Vishwas 2026
What is it?
- A one-time dispute resolution scheme for employers.
- Helps settle disputes related to damages and penalties under EPF laws.
- Effective from 29 June 2026.
- Operational for 6 months.
Objectives
- Promote voluntary compliance by employers.
- Reduce long-pending litigation.
- Ensure faster resolution of EPF disputes.
- Protect employees’ provident fund interests.
Implemented By
- Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
- Ministry of Labour & Employment
Legal Basis
- Section 14B of the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952.
- Section 128 of the Code on Social Security, 2020.
- Notified under the EPF Scheme, 2026.
Key Features
- Fully online (digital) application process.
- Transparent and time-bound settlement.
- Applicable to eligible pending disputes.
- Covers defaults made before 14 June 2024.
Revised Penalty Rates
- Up to 2 months default: 0.25% per month
- 2 to less than 4 months: 0.50% per month
- More than 4 months: 1% per month
