Mandaviya launches EPFO WhatsApp services to settle Rs 5 crore in inoperative accounts
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· IT, AI, semiconductors & computing· Prelims·
Digital governance and social security: a GS3 case study on last-mile delivery and financial inclusion.
Why in news
Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched EPFO services via WhatsApp to provide subscribers with PF balances and passbook information.
Background
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) launched a verified WhatsApp platform for subscribers to access account details. The initiative includes an automatic settlement for inoperative accounts with balances up to Rs 1,000, affecting approximately one lakh accounts totaling Rs 5 crore.
Facts for Prelims
- FactAutomatic settlement applies to inoperative accounts with balances up to Rs 1,000
- FactExpected beneficiary count: approximately one lakh accounts
- FactTotal estimated amount for settlement: Rs 5 crore
Prelims practice question
With reference to the EPFO WhatsApp services, consider the following statements:
- The settlement affects approximately one lakh accounts totaling Rs 5 crore.
- Automatic settlement applies to inoperative accounts with balances exceeding Rs 10,000.
- The initiative provides subscribers with PF balances and passbook information.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)3 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: Automatic settlement applies to accounts with balances up to Rs 1,000.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the integration of instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp in social security delivery enhances financial inclusion and administrative efficiency in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Digital divide: Accessibility barriers for workers in low-connectivity areas or without smartphones
- Data privacy: Risks associated with handling sensitive financial data on third-party messaging platforms
- Administrative efficiency: Reducing manual intervention in settling small-value inoperative accounts
Keywords: Financial Inclusion · Digital Governance · Social Security · Last-mile Delivery · Administrative Automation
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