Introduction
Starting a first job in India is both exciting and overwhelming. Many fresh graduates and newcomers to the workforce face financial hurdles such as relocation expenses, purchasing formal workwear, or managing initial living costs. Recognizing these challenges, the government has launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), which provides a ₹15,000 one-time incentive for eligible first-time employees.
Details of the Scheme
Launched in August 2025, PM-VBRY—formerly known as the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme—seeks to encourage youth employment by offering financial support to individuals entering their first private-sector job.
The ₹15,000 incentive is disbursed in two equal instalments:
₹7,500 after six months of continuous employment, and
₹7,500 after twelve months, provided the individual also completes a short financial literacy program.
The scheme is supported by a budget of nearly ₹99,446 crore (around ₹1 lakh crore) and is projected to help create 3.5 crore new jobs by mid-2027. Of these, approximately 1.92 crore are expected to be first-time employees.
Eligibility & How to Avail
To qualify for this benefit, individuals must meet the following conditions:
They must be taking up their first job in the private sector.
They should be registered under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
Their monthly salary must not exceed ₹1 lakh.
Completion of the financial literacy program is mandatory for full disbursement.
Application process:
Employees do not need to apply separately. Registration is usually handled automatically through the employer’s EPFO filings. Employers, however, must submit accurate payroll records (Electronic Challan-cum-Return or ECR). Any errors in reporting could result in denial of benefits for both the employee and the employer.
Purpose and Impact
The scheme has multiple objectives:
To make formal private-sector jobs more attractive for first-time workers.
To encourage job stability, reducing high turnover among freshers.
To incentivize employers to recruit and retain new talent.
By combining financial support with financial literacy, the initiative not only eases the transition into formal work but also promotes better money management among young employees. At the macro level, it strengthens India’s push toward higher employment generation and greater formalization of the workforce.
Public and Expert Opinion
Awareness drives, such as seminars conducted by regional Provident Fund offices, are helping both employers and employees understand the scheme’s benefits. Experts have praised the inclusion of financial literacy training, calling it a practical way to equip first-time earners with long-term money management skills. However, they also stress the importance of smooth implementation and accurate compliance from employers to ensure the program’s success.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana represents a timely initiative to support India’s youth in their first steps toward professional life. By offering ₹15,000 in two instalments linked to job continuity and financial education, it eases the financial strain of starting a career while promoting stability in the workforce. If effectively implemented, this program could benefit millions of young Indians and contribute significantly to the country’s broader employment and economic goals.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information as of August 2025. For the latest eligibility criteria, timelines, and to apply for the ₹15,000 incentive scheme, please visit the official EPFO website: epfindia.gov.in