The EPFO's upcoming E-PRAAPTI portal is set to revolutionize how employees trace and access their old or inactive provident fund (PF) accounts. This digital platform, announced by Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in April, aims to streamline the process of account tracing, reduce paperwork, and enable faster claims through Aadhaar-based verification. With an estimated 30.91 lakh inoperative EPF accounts holding nearly ₹9,330 crore, the initiative addresses a long-standing issue of unclaimed savings. The portal's primary focus is on members with old Member Identification Numbers (MIDs), offering a secure Aadhaar login, online application, and automatic account merger or withdrawal. This innovative approach not only reduces the need for past employers' verification but also minimizes paperwork and multiple visits to EPFO offices, making it easier for millions of EPFO subscribers to trace and recover their forgotten PF savings. However, the portal's scope is expected to expand in later phases to cater to members without old MIDs, ensuring a comprehensive solution for all EPFO members. This development marks a significant step towards a more efficient and accessible system for managing provident funds, reflecting a broader trend towards digital transformation in government services.
