EPFO delays UPI-linked PF withdrawals to May-end amid final testing The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has postponed the rollout of UPI-linked pension fund withdrawals to the end of May as it completes final testing for the sixth and last module of its Centralised IT Enabled System (CITES) 2.0 upgrade. Originally scheduled for March, the delay follows ongoing user testing for the final module, which focuses on grievance and compliance processes. CITES 2.0 represents a comprehensive overhaul of EPFO's legacy IT infrastructure, replacing fragmented, office-based systems with a centralized platform. The project is divided into six modules, each addressing specific functions: member accounts, employer filings, claims, pensions, finance, and compliance/grievance redressal. Five modules have already been implemented, while the sixth, handling compliance and grievance management, is currently under testing. The transition will require a temporary shutdown of EPFO services for approximately two days, likely during a weekend, to facilitate a full migration of data and software for all members and employers. A senior official overseeing the rollout noted that this downtime is necessary due to the system's complete redevelopment. The new platform, developed by a third-party IT firm under EPFO's supervision, will be accompanied by a dedicated mobile app distinct from the UMANG portal. This app will link users' bank accounts, enabling faster access to funds. Officials have indicated that users may withdraw up to 75% of their PF balance through the UPI-linked system, streamlining the process compared to traditional methods.#ministry_of_labour_and_employment #epfo #cites_2_0 #upi_linked_pf_withdrawals #umang_portal
