Starting a Reseller Firm: Do We Need ESI Registration and What Are the Steps?

We (3 members) are planning to start a firm. We will be working as a reseller of electrical components and services. We are planning to buy the components from wholesalers and supply and service them to energy-based companies. So, I want to know if ESI registration is required or not. If required, what are the formalities?

As indicated by you, if there is no manufacturing process in your unit, the unit will be called a "shop" and will be covered under the ESI Act, 1948 if it employs 10 or more persons on its premises. Coverage depends on the facts of employment and the nature of work performed in the unit.

Therefore, when you start your unit, it would be proper to consult and contact the nearest ESIC office to get necessary guidelines on the matter. You can also download some literature on ESI from the ESIC website.