ESIC Launches SPREE 2025: A Golden Chance for Employers to Register Without Penalties.

By A Staff Reporter

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, has announced the launch of SPREE 2025 (Scheme for Promoting Registration of Employers and Employees). This one-time initiative aims to bring more workers under the ambit of social security by encouraging employers to register themselves and all eligible employees without facing penalties, damages, or legal actions for the past period.

The special registration window will remain open from July 1 to December 31, 2025, during which time factories, shops, hotels, restaurants, cinema halls, motor transport undertakings, private medical institutions, educational institutions, and other establishments employing ten or more persons in ESIC-implemented areas can avail the benefits.

The ESI Act, passed in 1948 and implemented in Kanpur on February 24, 1952, was India’s first social security legislation. It provides employees with medical and cash benefits, ensuring protection during illness, accidents, and other contingencies. Over the years, the scheme has evolved, with the wage ceiling for coverage raised to ₹21,000 in 2017 and contribution rates reduced to 4% in 2019 (employer: 3.25%, employee: 0.75%).

Highlighting the importance of the scheme, Shri Amrish Kumar Sharma, Additional Commissioner & Regional Director, ESIC, said:

“SPREE 2025 is a golden opportunity for employers who have not yet covered themselves or their employees. Unlike regular inspections, no retrospective contributions, interests, or penalties will be levied during this six-month window. There is no question of back payments— from the date of declaration, you and your employees are covered under ESIC benefits.”

The ESIC coverage extends not only to employees but also to their families—including spouse, children, and even dependent parents—making it one of the most comprehensive social security schemes worldwide. Medical benefits are unlimited, while cash compensation covers up to 75% of wages in case of sickness or disability.

For more details, employers can visit www.esic.gov.in, contact their nearest branch, sub-regional, or regional office, or call the toll-free helpline 1800-11-2526.

With SPREE 2025, ESIC reaffirms its mission: “A Safer Workforce. A Stronger Business. Peace of Mind for Employers, Protection for Employees.”