Government Announces Establishment of 10 New ESIC Medical Colleges and Extension of Unemployment Allowance Scheme

The Labour & Employment Ministry has announced plans to establish 10 new ESIC medical colleges and extend the unemployment allowance scheme for ESI Corporation members until June 2026. These decisions were revealed during a meeting led by Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and medical services of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).

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Mandaviya confirmed the creation of 10 new ESIC Medical Colleges across different regions in India. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister's Independence Day 2024 promise to add 75,000 medical seats over five years. The expansion aims to bolster medical education and healthcare accessibility nationwide.

Unemployment Allowance Extension

The Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna, which provides unemployment benefits, will be extended for two more years. Starting from July 1, 2024, it will continue until June 30, 2026. Launched in 2018, this scheme offers financial support to insured individuals seeking new employment opportunities.

Additionally, a convergence program between ESIC and Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) will provide medical care to ESIC beneficiaries across India. Under this program, there will be no expenditure limit for insured persons receiving treatment at PMJAY-empanelled hospitals.

Healthcare Integration

This integration with AB-PMJAY ensures comprehensive healthcare coverage for ESIC beneficiaries without financial constraints. The collaboration aims to enhance healthcare access and quality for insured individuals across the nation.

The government's commitment to expanding medical education and extending unemployment benefits reflects its focus on improving healthcare infrastructure and social security measures. These initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on healthcare accessibility and employment support for citizens.