CAG Flags Major PF Mismanagement in Assam Tea Workers’ Fund

A CAG report has exposed serious lapses in the Assam Tea Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation between 2017-18 and 2021-22, including poor worker registration, massive PF defaults, and risky investments.

Only 624 of 1,197 tea estates have fully enrolled workers, leaving over 39,000 eligible workers uncovered. PF defaults from 334 estates amount to ₹315.45 crore, while ATCL-owned estates alone owe ₹386.64 crore after years of non-payment, despite later clearing contributions without interest.

The report also highlights poor settlement of family pension claims and failed transfers of ₹14.01 crore to nearly 2,000 beneficiaries. Risky investments may lead to future losses of up to ₹69.61 crore.