ESI Scheme Sees Record Enrollment as Workforce Expands

The Employees’ State Insurance Scheme witnessed a surge in new enrollments in February 2025, with 15.43 lakh workers joining the program. The latest payroll data from the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation highlights a growing trend of formal employment, with young professionals making up a significant portion of new registrations.  

 

Of the total new enrollees, 7.36 lakh workers—approximately 47.7 percent—belong to the age group of up to 25 years, reflecting an increasing shift toward structured employment opportunities. The gender-wise analysis of the data shows that 3.35 lakh female employees registered under the scheme, alongside 74 transgender workers, reinforcing ESIC’s commitment to inclusivity in social security benefits.  

 

Additionally, 23,526 new establishments were brought under the ESI Scheme in February, expanding coverage to a broader section of the workforce. The scheme, which provides medical care and financial security to employees earning up to ₹21,000 per month, continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding workers’ welfare.  

 

The rise in enrollments signals a positive trajectory for India’s labor market, with ESIC’s expanding coverage ensuring greater access to healthcare and social security benefits for employees across industries.  

 

Sources: Press Information Bureau, Economic Times, MSN News, Zee News, ET Government