The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is intensifying efforts to expand social security coverage across India. In its latest move, ESIC organized a session in Ludhiana under the SPREE 2025 initiative (Scheme for Promoting Registration of Employers and Employees). The program aims to bring more businesses and workers into the formal safety net of health and insurance benefits.
What is SPREE 2025?
SPREE 2025 allows employers and employees to register online with ESIC and access benefits like:
- Medical coverage for employees and their families.
- Cash benefits in cases of sickness, maternity, or disability.
- Insurance protection for work-related injuries and fatalities.
Importantly, employers who register during SPREE 2025 can do so without facing retroactive penalties for delayed compliance—a key step in encouraging participation.
Why Ludhiana Was Chosen
Ludhiana, being a major industrial hub, has thousands of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Many of these operate in the informal sector, where workers often lack proper health or accident cover.
By focusing on Ludhiana, ESIC hopes to set an example for other manufacturing cities across India.
Expert Insights
According to ESIC officials, the drive will not only benefit workers but also employers:
- Workers will gain health security and financial protection.
- Employers will be protected legally from penalties and future disputes.
- Industries will see higher productivity as insured workers feel more secure.
An ESIC regional officer said, “Social security is not an expense, it’s an investment in people. SPREE 2025 will create a healthier and more secure workforce.”
Related: IRDAI Proposes Internal Ombudsmen Inside Insurers to Resolve Complaints Faster
Why It Matters
India’s social security net is still thin, with millions of informal workers outside its coverage. By pushing digital registrations and removing penalties, ESIC is making the system more inclusive and accessible.
This is particularly relevant at a time when the government is considering GST relief on insurance premiums—a policy shift that could complement ESIC’s efforts.
SPREE 2025 shows how government initiatives are moving beyond policy papers into practical action, ensuring that workers and families get real insurance protection.
Do you think more workers will join ESIC through SPREE 2025? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to tag a friend who should know about this scheme.
