Important Announcements from 196th ESIC Meeting

KEY DECISIONS ANNOUNCED

• SPREE Re‑Launch (1 July – 31 Dec 2025): Over 88,000 employers and 1.02 crore employees were brought into the ESIC fold under the 2016 version. The renewed SPREE aims to further universalize ESI coverage—encouraging unregistered employers and temporary staff to voluntarily join, with coverage retroactive from their registration date.
• Amnesty Scheme – 2025 (1 Oct ’25 – 30 Sep ’26): For the first time, disputes involving damages & interest are included. Regional Directors can now withdraw cases where dues are settled—or filed against insured individuals over 5 years ago. This creates a smoother dispute resolution pathway, reducing litigation and fostering a pro-business environment.
• Damages Framework Simplified: Transition from graded rates to a flat 1% monthly penalty (capped at 12% annually), replacing the previous 25% p.a. maximum. A fair and transparent approach designed to encourage compliance and reduce disputes.
• AYUSH Integration & Wellness Expansion: The revised AYUSH‑2023 policy integrates Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha & Homeopathy within ESIC facilities. Plans include engaging Yoga therapists and Panchakarma specialists—stepping up holistic and preventive care.
• Charitable Hospital Pilot: A pilot partnership with charitable hospitals in underserved districts will expand OPD to emergency services for ESIC beneficiaries—bringing quality care to those who need it most.

27 June 2025, at the picturesque setting of Shimla, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Labour & Employment & Youth Affairs & Sports, led the groundbreaking 196th meeting of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).

Why This Matters:

• Expanded Coverage: Enabling access to social security for millions who were previously unprotected.
• Ease of Compliance: Through amnesty and simplified penalties, ESIC supports rather than penalizes.
• Holistic Healthcare: Embracing traditional wellness while widening access via charitable collaborations.
• Boosting Ease of Doing Business: Streamlined dispute resolution and reduced litigation are major wins for employers.

Please find attached the notification below:

PIB2140169