New Delhi, May 7: Union Minister of Labour & Employment Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday launched a nationwide initiative providing free annual health check-ups for workers aged 40 and above, at the ESIC Medical College & Hospital in Basaidarapur, Delhi, in line with the Labour Codes.
Speaking at the event, Mandaviya said the implementation of the four Labour Codes demonstrates Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to ensuring dignity, welfare, and social security for workers across India. Terming the occasion a celebration of “Shram Shakti,” he emphasized the government’s efforts to expand social security coverage for all workers.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, social security coverage in India has grown from nearly 30 crore people a decade ago to around 94 crore today, rising from 19% to 64%. ESIC coverage has also doubled, from roughly 7 crore beneficiaries to nearly 15 crore.
Mandaviya highlighted that the free annual health check-ups for workers over 40 will be conducted nationwide, with early detection through these screenings helping to prevent serious illnesses. Identified treatments and medicines will be provided at ESIC facilities.
The launch was simultaneously observed at 11 other ESIC hospitals across the country, with State Labour Ministers, Members of Parliament, legislators, senior officials, employers’ representatives, and workers in attendance.
The Minister also underscored key labour reforms under the Modi government, including provisions for equal wages for men and women, an increase in maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, and the inclusion of work-from-home options for women. He noted that while many countries are still working to include gig and platform workers under social security frameworks, India has proactively incorporated them through the new Labour Codes.
