Mansukh Mandaviya Launches Nationwide Free Annual Health Check-Up Initiative for Workers

Union Minister for Labour and Employment Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has launched a nationwide free annual health check-up initiative for workers aged 40 years and above under the new Labour Codes.

The programme was launched from the ESIC Medical College and Hospital in Basaidarapur, New Delhi, and aims to strengthen occupational healthcare and social security coverage for India’s workforce.

The initiative is being rolled out through the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) network across the country.

Why in News?

The Government of India has started a nationwide annual health screening programme for workers above the age of 40 as part of the implementation of the four Labour Codes.

The move is aimed at improving preventive healthcare, early disease detection, and long-term health monitoring for workers, especially those employed in hazardous occupations.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

Free Annual Health Check-Ups

Under the initiative:

• Workers aged 40 years and above will receive free annual health check-ups
• Screenings will be conducted through ESIC hospitals and health facilities
• Focus will remain on preventive healthcare and early diagnosis

The programme is expected to benefit lakhs of workers covered under ESIC across India.

Focus on Occupational Health

The initiative also strengthens occupational healthcare systems in India.

Workers engaged in hazardous industries, including chemical handling and dangerous operations, will receive mandatory medical check-ups irrespective of age.

Linked to New Labour Codes

The health check-up programme is part of the broader labour reforms introduced under the four Labour Codes.

The reforms aim to:

• Expand social security coverage
• Simplify labour laws
• Improve worker welfare
• Increase formalisation of employment

The Code on Social Security, 2020 also includes provisions for gig and platform workers.

What Did Mansukh Mandaviya Say?

Speaking during the launch event, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said the government is committed to ensuring dignity, welfare, and healthcare security for workers.

He highlighted that India’s social security coverage has expanded significantly over the last decade.

According to the Minister:

• Social security coverage increased from 19% to 64%
• Nearly 94 crore people are now covered under social security systems
• ESIC beneficiaries increased from around 7 crore to nearly 15 crore people

He also stated that India is among the first countries to provide social security coverage for gig and platform workers under labour reforms.

Role of ESIC in the Initiative

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) will play a central role in implementing the programme.

Services Expected Under ESIC

• Annual health screenings
• Treatment support
• Medicines through ESIC facilities
• Long-term health monitoring

The scheme will operate through ESIC hospitals, dispensaries, and empanelled healthcare facilities.

Background: What are the Four Labour Codes?

The Government consolidated 29 central labour laws into four Labour Codes to simplify compliance and strengthen worker welfare.

The Four Labour Codes

1. Code on Wages
2. Industrial Relations Code
3. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code
4. Code on Social Security

These reforms focus on labour rights, workplace safety, and social protection.

Why This Initiative Matters

India has a large workforce employed in both organised and unorganised sectors. Many workers do not undergo regular medical check-ups due to financial constraints or lack of healthcare access.

The annual health screening initiative could help in:

• Early disease detection
• Reducing serious health complications
• Improving workplace productivity
• Expanding healthcare access for workers

The move also reflects increasing focus on preventive healthcare in public policy.