ESIC adds over 20 lakh new employees in July

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) registered a sharp rise in new enrolments in July, adding 20.36 lakh employees to its payroll. This marks a 4.86 per cent increase from June, when 19.37 lakh workers were added, according to data released by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Young workers continue to dominate enrolments under the scheme. Of the total registrations in July, 9.85 lakh—around 48 per cent—were individuals aged below 25 years. This highlights the growing participation of first-time jobseekers in the formal workforce.

The month also saw 31,146 new establishments come under the ESI Scheme. Their inclusion has expanded the social security net to a larger section of India’s workforce, ensuring access to benefits such as medical care, maternity protection, and financial support in cases of sickness or workplace injury.

A gender-wise analysis shows that 4.33 lakh women were enrolled in July, reinforcing the steady participation of female workers in the organised sector. In a notable step towards inclusivity, 88 transgender employees were also registered under the scheme during the month.

The ESI Scheme serves as one of India’s key social- security systems. It applies to factories and certain establishments, including shops, hotels, and educational institutions, with a specified number of employees. The scheme provides comprehensive protection, covering medical, financial, and disability benefits for employees and their families.

While the July figures reflect strong momentum, officials noted that the payroll data remains provisional as it is updated on a continuous basis. In comparison, June’s enrolments included 9.58 lakh young workers, making up nearly half of total additions.

The steady rise in enrolments signals both job creation in the formal sector and the expanding coverage of social security in India.