Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 September 2025
The Labour Department, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the Regional Employees’ Provident Fund Office (EPFO), conducted a sensitization programme on the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY) on 3rd September 2025 at Swaraj Dweep. The programme, attended by over 30 prospective employers, aimed to create awareness about the Government of India’s flagship initiative worth Rs.1 lakh crore, designed to generate over 3.5 crore jobs across the country between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027.
Mr. Vishakh O.T., Assistant Labour Commissioner, highlighted the objectives and features of PM-VBRY, stressing its role in achieving the Government’s Viksit Bharat @2047 vision by promoting large-scale employment creation, particularly for first-time job seekers. He explained that employees earning up to Rs.1 lakh per month, registered with EPFO, would receive up to Rs.15,000 in two installments through Direct Benefit Transfer after completing six and twelve months of continuous service, subject to completion of a financial literacy course.
Employers, on the other hand, would receive monthly incentives ranging from Rs.1,000 to Rs.3,000 per new hire for two years, extended to four years in the manufacturing sector. To qualify, establishments with fewer than 50 employees must hire at least two new workers annually, while those with more than 50 employees must hire at least five.
The scheme, implemented by the Ministry of Labour & Employment and EPFO, requires employees to have Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, a Universal Account Number (UAN), and EPFO registration, while employers must be EPFO-registered and file monthly Electronic Challan cum Returns (ECR). Registration is available through the official PM-VBRY portal (pmvbry.epfindia.gov.in) or the UMANG app.
During the interactive session, Mr. Vishakh urged employers to utilise the scheme to expand employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth. Ms. Vijita Devi, Labour Inspector, Labour Department, and Ms. Nalini, Enforcement Officer, EPFO, were also present.
The Labour Department has encouraged employers and workers in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to register under PM-VBRY and benefit from this transformative scheme.
