Govt to set up 10 new ESIC medical colleges, extend unemployment allowance

The government, led by Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, has announced the establishment of 10 new ESIC medical colleges and the extension of the unemployment allowance scheme under the Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna until June 2026. These decisions align with the Prime Minister’s Independence Day (2024) promise to add 75,000 medical seats in the next five years.

Unemployment Allowance Extended

The Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna, launched in 2018, provides unemployment benefits to ESIC-insured individuals seeking new employment. The scheme has been extended for two years, from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026.

Medical Care for ESIC Beneficiaries

Under a convergence with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), ESIC beneficiaries will receive unlimited medical care in empanelled hospitals nationwide, with no expenditure limit.

ESIC Medical Colleges: Key Points in Short

10 New Colleges: The government will set up 10 new ESIC medical colleges across India.

Supports PM’s Goal: This initiative is part of the plan to create 75,000 new medical seats by 2029.

Improved Medical Infrastructure: Aimed at strengthening healthcare facilities under the Employee State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) framework.

Beneficiary Impact: Enhanced access to medical education and healthcare for ESIC-insured persons.

Key Points on ESIC & Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna

Aspect	Details
Why in News	Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced 10 new ESIC medical colleges and the extension of the unemployment allowance scheme under Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna until June 2026.
Minister	Mansukh Mandaviya (Labour and Employment Minister)
Medical Colleges	10 new ESIC medical colleges to be established across India
PM’s Goal	Supports the promise to add 75,000 new medical seats by 2029
Unemployment Allowance Scheme	Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna extended from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026
Scheme Launch Year	Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna was launched in 2018
ESIC-Ayushman Bharat Convergence	ESIC beneficiaries to receive unlimited medical care in empanelled hospitals under AB-PMJAY
Healthcare Focus	Aims to enhance healthcare and medical education under the ESIC framework
Static Facts (ESIC)	Full Form: Employee State Insurance Corporation