The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is preparing to launch its services on WhatsApp to improve communication and make member services easier to access, reports the Press Trust of India (PTI).
Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said EPFO plans to use WhatsApp because it is being widely used by mobile phone users across the country, reported PTI.
How EPF WhatsApp service will work
Under the proposed service, members will simply need to send a 'Hello' message to EPFO's verified WhatsApp number, identified by a green tick, to start interacting with EPFO.
Members will also have the option to receive EPFO-related updates directly on their registered mobile numbers. The communication will be available in local and regional languages so that users can interact more comfortably in their preferred language, PTI reported.
Initially, the focus will be on helping members covered under the PMVBRY scheme who are facing issues such as incomplete Aadhaar authentication through UIDAI's Face Authentication Technology or non-activation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. These members are expected to receive support directly through WhatsApp for resolving such issues.
Separately, the minister said EPFO has been working on reducing pending legal disputes through a mission-mode initiative focused on faster resolution of cases across different legal forums.
Nidhi Aapke Nikat
A dedicated drive was launched by EPFO to clear cases pending before consumer courts. Under the 'Nidhi Aapke Nikat' programme, cases were identified in advance and taken up for quicker disposal.
EPFO has also been proactively identifying pending consumer cases and reaching out to citizens through the Nidhi Aapke Nikat programme for faster grievance resolution.
The campaign mainly dealt with disputes related to interest payable by employers for delayed PF remittances under the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. EPFO appointed zone-wise nodal officers to coordinate with stakeholders and tribunals.
Many banks offer Whatsapp services
Many banks in India now offer Whatsapp services and allow you to securely check balances, download statements, manage cards and request services 24/7 directly through the messaging app. You must send a 'Hi' from the mobile number registered with your bank.
