In October 2024, the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) registered a significant increase in its coverage, with a total of 17.80 lakh new workers enrolled under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme.
This reflects a steady growth in the social security net for workers across the country. Additionally, 21,588 new establishments were brought under the ESI Scheme, ensuring that more workers now have access to vital social security benefits, including health care and financial assistance in case of sickness, maternity, and injury.
A closer look at the demographic breakdown of these new registrations reveals interesting trends. Out of the 17.80 lakh new employees, nearly 8.50 lakh, or about 47.75%, are young workers under the age of 25.
This highlights the increasing participation of youth in formal employment and their access to social security benefits. The rise in young enrolments indicates a growing awareness among the younger generation about the importance of securing social benefits at an early stage in their careers.
The gender analysis of the new enrolments further reflects positive strides in inclusive social welfare. In October, a total of 3.52 lakh female employees were enrolled in the ESI Scheme, marking an important contribution to women’s participation in the workforce.
Moreover, in a significant move towards inclusivity, 42 transgender employees were also registered under the scheme during this period.
This gesture underscores the ESIC’s commitment to extending the benefits of the ESI Scheme to all segments of society, ensuring equal access for all workers, irrespective of gender or sexual identity.
The overall growth in registrations also shows a healthy 3% year-on-year increase when compared to October 2023. This consistent rise in enrolments reflects the effectiveness of the ESI Scheme in reaching more workers across various sectors and industries.
With more workers and establishments joining the scheme, the social security system is becoming increasingly robust, offering greater financial protection to workers in times of need.