New Delhi, Sep 28: The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is providing health security coverage to around 25 crore people across India, Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Monday.
Speaking at the CII-EFI National Conference on Industrial Relations and Labour & Awards 2026 in New Delhi, Mandaviya highlighted the expanding reach of social security programmes and their role in supporting workers and their families.
He said the government is working to strengthen social protection while taking into account India’s economic and social conditions. The minister also underlined the importance of maintaining a balance between international labour practices and the country’s own systems and requirements.
Mandaviya said several other welfare measures are also reaching large sections of the population. Around 80 crore people are receiving free food grains, while about 10 crore farmers receive Rs 2,000 every four months through direct bank transfers. He also noted that several states are providing monthly financial assistance to women.
The minister has also called on states to review the utilisation of labour welfare cess funds and identify areas where the funds can be used more effectively for workers’ welfare. He has urged states to assess the implementation of the Labour Codes and identify areas requiring better execution.
The expansion of ESIC coverage is aimed at strengthening healthcare and social protection for workers and their dependants. Wider coverage can help improve access to medical support and provide greater financial security to working families during periods of illness.
The government’s continued focus on social security is also linked to the broader goal of building a more inclusive workforce, where economic growth is accompanied by stronger protection and welfare for workers.