Social Security Fund Contributions Near Rs100 Billion as Enrolment Expands

The government’s push to bring citizens under a wider social protection umbrella has significantly boosted deposits in the Social Security Fund (SSF). According to the Fund, total contributions have now reached Rs 95.44 billion, reflecting both the expansion of coverage and growing compliance among employers and workers.

The SSF reported that 22,309 employers have been listed under the scheme, while the number of registered contributors has climbed to 2,641,189. Officials say participation has grown sharply after the government made it mandatory for migrant workers to enroll before taking up foreign employment. The inclusion of self-employed workers, industrial laborers and employees of various associations has also expanded the scheme’s reach.

The Fund has so far disbursed Rs 17.64 billion in claims across various welfare programs. Of the total benefits paid, Rs 2.51 billion was released for medical, health and maternity support, while accident and disability claims amounted to Rs 228.65 million. Likewise, dependent family security benefits reached Rs 290.72 million, and old-age and retirement benefits accounted for the largest share at Rs 14.61 billion.

Officials say the rising volume of payouts—particularly under the old-age category—indicates that the Fund is evolving into a core component of Nepal’s social protection framework. However, the growing liability also highlights the need for stronger investment strategies to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Stakeholders argue that as contributions continue to rise, the SSF must diversify its investment avenues to generate steady returns. They say new, innovative schemes are needed to make the program more attractive for workers and to ensure effective utilization of the expanding fund base.

The Fund currently provides benefits related to medical treatment, pension, accident and disability coverage, dependent family support, and old-age security. While the scheme is gradually gaining public trust, experts say more awareness and simplified processes are essential to bring a larger share of Nepal’s labor force into the social protection net.