News: The Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched the VISHWAS 2026 Scheme, a one-time dispute resolution initiative of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

About

• VISHWAS stands for Voluntary Initiative for Speedy Hearing and Waiver of Adverse Surcharges.
• It is a one-time dispute resolution scheme to settle long-pending employer disputes related to EPF penalties and damages.
• Resolution Window: 6 months (up to December 2026).

Objective

• Promote voluntary compliance by employers.
• Reduce prolonged litigation.
• Ensure fast-track digital settlement of EPF disputes.

Key Highlights

• Applicable to disputes under the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 and the Code on Social Security, 2020.
• Covers pending court/tribunal cases, recovery proceedings, show-cause notices, and delayed contribution cases.
• Applicable only to defaults occurring on or before 14 June 2024.

Offers reduced penalty rates:

• Up to 2 months: 0.25% per month
• 2–4 months: 0.50% per month
• Above 4 months: 1.00% per month
• Employers must withdraw all pending appeals/litigation to avail the scheme.