ISLAMABAD: Pensioners of the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) have urged the federal government to increase the minimum pension and introduce structural reforms, citing rising inflation and financial hardship among retired workers.

In a press statement issued in Islamabad, representatives of EOBI pensioners said the current pension amount is insufficient to meet basic living expenses. They called for an immediate revision of the minimum pension to ensure a dignified standard of living for elderly citizens.

The pensioners also raised concerns about the institution’s financial management. They stated that approximately Rs4 billion is spent annually on salaries and additional benefits for EOBI employees, which they claimed is being funded from pensioners’ contributions. They demanded that staff salaries be paid from the federal budget, as is the case with other government departments, rather than from retirement funds meant for workers.

They further called for greater transparency regarding EOBI’s funds, assets, income and number of contributors. The pensioners urged the government to reconstitute the EOBI Board of Trustees in accordance with existing rules and regulations to ensure improved governance and oversight.

Among other demands, they sought restoration of the federal government’s matching grant, which they said has been discontinued since 1995. They also recommended a comparative review of pension systems in European and Asian countries, arguing that international models offer stronger social protection and healthcare support for senior citizens.

The pensioners proposed gradually aligning social pensions with the national minimum wage and implementing policy reforms based on international best practices.

They expressed hope that the government would address their concerns and take steps to improve financial security for elderly, sick and vulnerable pensioners who contributed to the national economy during their working years and now seek a stable and dignified retirement.