Govt mulls EPFO, ESIC merger

Responding to a calling attention by CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta, Rao said the government had drafted a Bill to regulate the employment and service conditions of the unorganised workforce and provide for their safety, social security, health and welfare.

A comprehensive legislation for unorganised workers would be prepared after consultations with states and consideration of recommendations made by the Arjun Sengupta Committee.

The major provisions of the unorganised sector workers Bill include setting up of welfare fund with contributions from workers, employers, central and state governments.

There is also provision of formulation of social security schemes like health and medical care, employment injury benefits, maternity benefits, group insurance, housing and old-age pension, he said.

Pension meet may be held next week

: The standing committee on finance is likely to hold its first meeting on the new pension scheme and the proposed Pension Fund Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA) next week. The committee was earlier slated to submit its report during this session of Parliament. With this delay, observers say the report is unlikely to be submitted before the end of the year.