Understanding ESI: How Does Employee State Insurance Support Workers in India?

What are the salient features of ESI?

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The salient features of ESI (Employee State Insurance) include comprehensive medical coverage for insured individuals and their dependents, providing cash benefits during maternity, disablement, and sickness, as well as coverage for funeral expenses. ESI also offers rehabilitation services, vocational training programs, and free medical facilities through ESI dispensaries and hospitals. Additionally, ESI aims to promote social security by ensuring financial protection and healthcare benefits for workers and their families.

The Employee State Insurance (ESI) scheme in India provides various benefits to employees, including medical, maternity, disability, and dependent benefits. Some key features of ESI include coverage for employees earning up to Rs. 21,000 per month, medical benefits for the employee and their family members, cash benefits during sickness, maternity, and employment injury, and funeral expenses. Employers are required to contribute to the ESI fund, and the scheme is governed by the Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948. To avail of ESI benefits, both the employer and employee need to be registered under the scheme. For detailed information on ESI benefits, eligibility criteria, and the registration process, you can visit the official ESI portal or consult with a legal expert familiar with Indian labor laws.