EPFO to launch E‑PRAAPTI to link old EPF accounts with UAN

What: EPFO to introduce E‑PRAAPTI (EPF Aadhaar‑based Access Portal for Tracking Inoperative Accounts) for Aadhaar‑based identification and linking/activation of old EPF accounts with UAN.

Problem addressed: 31.83 lakh inoperative EPF accounts (41% inactive 5–10 years; 22% inactive >20 years). EPFO settled 8.31 crore claims in FY26.

Implementation: Member‑ID based first phase; later expansion for members who don’t recall old IDs.

Significance:

• Social security: Simplifies claim settlement, reduces leakage, improves portability and transparency in provident fund management.

• Digital governance: Uses Aadhaar authentication to reduce manual process and paperwork.

UPSC relevance: Social security systems, digital delivery of welfare, governance of statutory funds.

Practice Q: Evaluate how digital platforms like E‑PRAAPTI can improve efficiency and inclusion in social security schemes.