Can Individual Contractors Benefit from the PMRPY Scheme? Seeking Clarity and Insights

Can anybody enlighten me on whether a contractor can register and avail the benefits under the PMRPY scheme? Consider that the contractor is an individual/proprietor.

Dear Habeeb,

If a contractor is registered under EPFO, then yes, he can opt for the PMRPY scheme if he meets all necessary conditions, such as not being a member previously before registration under EPFO for the PMRPY scheme. These employees are considered his direct employees.

PMRPY is applicable for all sectors. As rightly mentioned in an earlier reply, if employee-specific criteria are met - like first-time PF membership of an employee, wages not more than Rs. 15,000, and a net increase in the number of employees - then the PMRPY benefit is available irrespective of the business/industry of the employer.

CA. Manish Dafria
Indore