Am I Eligible for Gratuity After 16 Years of Service with Late PF Deductions?

I have been working in a private company since June 2004. From June 2002 to March 2012, I received my salary in cash. After March 2012, I started receiving my salary by cheque, and from April 2016 onwards, my salary was deposited directly into my account. Also, PF deductions started in 2016. I have recently resigned from the company after working for 16 years and five months. My question is, am I eligible for gratuity or not?

You are eligible for gratuity for the entire service provided there is continuous service. The mode of payment of salary, whether it be cash, cheque, or bank credit, doesn't matter.