Analyzing the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme: Pros, cons, and concerns

The Union Cabinet approved the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme with an outlay of ₹99,446 crore, aiming to create over 3.5 crore jobs. The scheme, implemented by EPFO, offers incentives like first installment payment of ₹15,000 and a savings instrument deposit for new employees. While the RSS-backed Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) welcomed it, other trade unions and industry experts raised concerns about EPFO's role as a custodian of employee savings, potential misuse by employers, and the scheme's effectiveness in addressing economic slowdown or improving workers' purchasing power.

Key Points

  • The ELI scheme aims to create over 3.5 crore jobs with a significant outlay.
  • It provides incentives like direct payments and savings deposits for new employees.
  • Trade unions express concerns about EPFO's role and potential misuse of funds.
  • Industry experts question the scheme's broader economic impact and effectiveness.

Exam Facts

  • Scheme name: Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme.
  • Outlay: ₹99,446 crore.
  • Implementing agency: Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
  • Timeline: August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2027.

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All current affairs of 6 July 2025