How Can Sales Staff Across India Ensure ESI Coverage for Their Families? Seeking Clarity

ESI Coverage for Sales Staff Across India

Companies with sales staff scattered across various locations in India are covered under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) scheme. However, there is a challenge in extending the coverage benefits to their families. Can these employees visit the nearest branch office to their work location for biometric validation of their family members? There seems to be a lack of clarity on this process.

Alternative Coverage Options

Is there an option to exclude such field staff from ESI coverage and instead enroll them in a Group Medical Insurance scheme? I am seeking authentic information on this matter, as it would greatly assist our company's field staff.

Dear NSRIPAD,

Please find the reply below:

1. Yes, they can go to any ESIC branch to get their biometric card; there is no restriction on the same.
2. Yes, you can cover them under a Group Medical Policy, but you still need to keep contributing ESIC amount as their salary is below ₹21,000. Being covered under ESIC does not prevent them from being covered under any other policy. The only consideration is whether your company is willing to bear the extra cost.