The Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948 (ESI Act)provides social protection and financial support to employees in case of sickness, maternity, disablement, or death due to employment-related injuries. The Act has been instrumental in providing social security and healthcare benefits to millions of employees and their families in India. It aims to protect workers from the financial burden of medical expenses during times of illness or injury and promotes their overall well-being in the labor market.
The ESI Act is administered and regulated by the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. Over the years, the Act has undergone amendments to expand its coverage and improve the benefits provided to the insured employees.