Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya speaks during the launch of nationwide free health check-ups for workers above 40 years at ESIC Basai Darapur in New Delhi on May 7, 2026. Photo: X/@mansukhmandviya via ANI
The Union Ministry of Labor on Thursday (May 7, 2026) launched a program of free health check-ups for all workers over 40, which will be carried out annually across the country. Inaugurating the programme, Labor Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said it would be a major milestone in strengthening occupational health care and social security for the Indian workforce.
Mr. Mandaviya said the government is committed to strengthening social security for all workers, adding that the country’s social security protection has expanded from nearly 30 million people a decade ago to about 94 million beneficiaries now. “Employee State Insurance Company (ESIC) coverage has increased from around seven million beneficiaries a decade ago to nearly 15 million beneficiaries today,” he said.
The minister said that early detection through health check-ups can help prevent serious diseases and informed that treatment and medicines identified during the camps will be provided through ESIC facilities.
Referring to the provisions of the Labor Code, he said that equal wages were ensured for working men and women, maternity leave was extended from 12 weeks to 26 weeks, and provisions on working from home for women were also incorporated. The codes, he said, proactively include gig workers as well.
“While workers were previously neglected and unheard, the current government has ensured that their concerns are addressed with commitment and sensitivity,” he said, adding that the national health screening initiative is another important effort aimed at ensuring dignity, protection and better health outcomes for the country’s workforce.
Published – 07 May 2026 18:22 IST
