Big Update from the Ministry of Labour and Employment
The Government of India has taken a significant step toward expanding social security coverage in the North East. In a recent notification dated April 15, 2025, the Ministry of Labour and Employment announced the implementation of the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Scheme in eight districts of Nagaland, effective from May 1, 2025.
Districts Where ESI Scheme Will Be Applicable
Starting May 1, 2025, the following districts in Nagaland will be covered under the ESI Scheme:
- Dimapur
- Kohima
- Mokokchung
- Chumukedima
- Niuland
- Tseminyu
- Wokha
- Zunheboto
All areas within these districts will come under the purview of the ESI Act.
What Is the ESI Scheme?
The Employees’ State Insurance Scheme, governed by the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, is a self-financing social security and health insurance scheme for Indian workers. It provides medical, cash, maternity, disability, and dependent benefits to the insured employees.
Legal Provisions That Come Into Effect
The following sections of the ESI Act will be enforced in the notified districts:
- Sections 38–43: Employee and employer contributions
- Sections 45A–45H: Enforcement, inspection, and recovery mechanisms
- Sections 46–73: Benefits like sickness, maternity, and disability
- Sections 74–75: Legal proceedings and dispute handling
- Section 76(2)–(4): Tribunal and procedural matters
- Sections 82–83: Rule-making and repeal provisions
This move ensures workers in Nagaland will now have access to essential social security benefits.
Why This Matters to Employers and Employees
For Employers:
- Mandatory compliance if operating in the notified districts
- Need to register eligible employees under the ESI scheme
- Contributions must be made regularly and records maintained
For Employees:
- Access to medical care for self and dependents
- Financial support in times of sickness or maternity
- Coverage in case of injury, disability, or death due to employment
Official Notification Details
- Notification No: S.O. 1716(E)
- Date Issued: April 15, 2025
- Effective From: May 1, 2025
- Signed By: Dr. Mahendra Kumar, Joint Secretary
- Published In: The Gazette of India – Extraordinary (Part II, Section 3(ii))
Disclaimer – This blog post is a general guide. It should not be considered legal advice. Consult a legal professional for more details.