Is ESIC Mandatory Or Private Ins. OK?

Is ESIC mandatory for employees earning less that Rs. 17,000 a month or can a company provide them with private insurance? we have been covering our janitorial staff with private insurance for the past 3 years - ever since we started operating the company in India. Now, we\'re being told by our accounting consultant that ESIC is mandatory for staff under 22,000. OK, but is there an issue if we provide them with better coverage than what ESIC will provide?

If your establishment is covered under the ESI Act then you have to pay it. The salary limit is Rs.21000/-
You can apply for exemption from appropriate government if you are providing better facility than ESI.