ESIC
The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Act provides for medical benefits and social security to employees and their families. The ESIC Act has undergone various changes and amendments over the years to better serve the needs of the employees. Please find below some of the major circulars and orders issued by the ESIC department for your reference:
Increase in Wage Limit: In January 2017, the ESIC increased the wage limit for coverage of employees under the ESIC Act from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 21,000 per month. This means that all employees earning up to Rs. 21,000 per month are eligible for ESIC coverage.
Circular on Inspection of Records Beyond 5 Years refers to the regulation which limit the permits of ESIC officials to inspect the records of an establishment beyond a period of five years.
Introduction of e-Pehchan Card: In March 2018, the ESIC introduced the e-Pehchan Card, which is a digital card that can be used by employees to avail of ESIC benefits. This card is linked to the Aadhaar number of the employee and can be accessed online.
Increase in Maternity Benefit: In December 2016, the ESIC increased the maternity benefit for female employees from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. This move was aimed at providing better social security to female employees during pregnancy and childbirth.
These are some of the major circulars and orders issued by the ESIC department in recent years. Employers and employees are advised to stay updated with these changes to ensure compliance with the ESIC regulations and to avail of the benefits provided by the ESIC Act.