The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) saw a notable rise in membership during April 2025, adding around 19.14 lakh net members, according to the Ministry of Labour and Employment. This marks a 31.31 per cent increase compared to March 2025, showing improved hiring trends and awareness of social security benefits.
When compared to April last year, there was a 1.17 per cent growth in net membership, pointing to steady improvement in job opportunities and EPFO's successful efforts in spreading awareness about employee benefits.
Youth and Female Participation on the Rise
Out of the total new additions, about 8.49 lakh were first-time subscribers, a 12.49 per cent jump from the previous month. Notably, the 18-25 age group made up the largest share, with 4.89 lakh new joiners—around 57.67 per cent of all new subscribers in April. This number rose 10.05 per cent from March, suggesting more young people are entering the formal job market.
EPFO also added 7.58 lakh net members from the same age group, marking a 13.60 per cent increase from March. The Ministry noted this trend reflects a steady flow of young, first-time job seekers into the organised workforce.
Women Joiners and Re-entries Show Strong Growth
In April 2025, around 2.45 lakh women became new EPFO members, a 17.63 per cent increase from March. The total net addition of female members stood at 3.95 lakh, which is a 35.24 per ent rise month-on-month. This jump signals growing female participation in formal employment sectors.
Meanwhile, about 15.77 lakh members who had left earlier rejoined EPFO, a 19.19 per cent increase over March. Many of these returning workers chose to transfer their existing balances instead of withdrawing them, helping to secure their long-term savings.
State-wise, Maharashtra led payroll growth, contributing 21.12 per cent of April’s total net additions. Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana also made significant contributions, each accounting for more than 5 per cent of total growth.
