New Delhi, February 24, 2026: The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) formally commenced its 75th Foundation Year celebrations at Bharat Mandapam, reaffirming its commitment to worker welfare and announcing a series of reforms and healthcare initiatives.
Established in 1952 under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, ESIC began with about 1.2 lakh beneficiaries and a single dispensary. Today, it provides healthcare and social security coverage to more than 15 crore beneficiaries through 166 hospitals, 17 medical colleges and nearly 1,600 dispensaries across India.
Labour Codes to Expand Healthcare Coverage
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the transformative provisions under the Labour Codes, particularly the mandatory annual health check-up for workers aged 40 years and above through ESIC facilities. He said this step will strengthen preventive healthcare and protect the workforce from occupational diseases.
He urged ESIC institutions to ensure the availability of medicines, modern equipment and adequate doctors in all hospitals. Referrals should be minimized by strengthening in-house services, he added, stressing discipline and accountability among staff.
According to the Ministry of Labour & Employment, the Labour Codes also expand social security coverage to unorganised and gig workers, broadening ESIC’s responsibilities nationwide.
Commemorative Coin and Coffee Table Book Released
To mark the Platinum Jubilee milestone, a commemorative coin symbolising ESIC@75 was unveiled. A coffee table book documenting ESIC’s milestones, legacy and reform journey was also released during the event.
The Swasthya Rath initiative was launched to enhance outreach and bring healthcare services closer to insured workers. Annual health check-up camps were simultaneously rolled out nationwide in line with Labour Code provisions.
MoUs to Strengthen Quality and Access
Two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to improve healthcare delivery and quality standards. An MoU between ESIC and the National Health Authority (NHA) aims to integrate the ESI Scheme with Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) for better coordination and expanded access.
Another agreement was signed with the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) to strengthen laboratory accreditation and quality assurance across ESIC facilities. These partnerships are expected to enhance efficiency and bring national-level quality benchmarks to ESIC hospitals.
Special Services Fortnight Announced
ESIC announced a Special Services Fortnight from February 24 to March 10, 2026, across its hospitals and field offices. The initiative will include awareness programmes, hygiene drives, grievance redressal sessions, yoga and AYUSH camps, and expedited settlement of pending claims.
Preventive screenings and daily health check-up camps for insured persons aged 40 and above will focus on early detection of occupational diseases. Basic life support training sessions and seminars will also be conducted to enhance public health awareness.
Vision for a Global Health Security Model
Dr. Mandaviya called on all stakeholders to work collectively to make ESIC a global example of health security. He compared ESIC’s evolution to the growth of a responsible institution adapting to changing times and expanding its reach.
Senior officials, including Secretary (Labour & Employment) Vandana Gurnani, emphasized that a healthy and secure workforce directly contributes to national productivity and economic growth. She noted that treating an insured person not only addresses illness but prevents financial hardship and safeguards families.
As ESIC enters its 75th year, the Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to building a healthier, protected and empowered workforce, aligned with the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
