EOBI pledges reforms, collaboration with KATI

KARACHI: Acting Chairperson of the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) Javed A Sheikh has announced that unregistered industries recommended by the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) will receive immediate certification without the need to clear old dues.

Speaking to KATI members on Thursday, Sheikh assured attendees that the EOBI help desk at KATI would be reinstated, underscoring the importance of mutual collaboration in resolving pending issues. He welcomed KATI’s proposal to develop a comprehensive plan for addressing outstanding dues and payments through consultation.

Sheikh commended KATI for its role as the largest contributor to the EOBI in Pakistan, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the two entities. He assured that no action, such as issuing notices or attachments, would be taken against industries in the Korangi industrial zone without prior consultation with KATI.

Sheikh emphasised the EOBI’s critical role in providing pensions to retired employees, revealing that the institution disburses over Rs5 billion in pensions monthly. This funding, which has now reached Rs524 billion, is solely generated through contributions from industries and organisations, without any government grants.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by inflation, Sheikh reiterated the EOBI’s commitment to supporting employees and announced plans to increase pension amounts to enhance the financial stability of retired workers.

He also addressed concerns regarding the behaviour of EOBI field officers, assuring attendees that complaints of mistreatment would not be tolerated. Sheikh urged organisations to report any such incidents directly to EOBI for swift resolution.

Sheikh unveiled the EOBI’s new digital portal, which is currently under testing. This platform is designed to improve transparency and efficiency by providing industries with one-click access to detailed information about employees, registered offices and contributions. The software is expected to launch soon.

Sheikh also announced reforms to resolve the issue of separate registrations for businesses with multiple office locations -- a recurring challenge for industries.

KATI President Junaid Naqi outlined several pressing issues faced by industries, urging the EOBI to continue its collaborative approach to address these challenges.