An engaging and informative interactive session was hosted by the South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Samhanti, Sarsana, Surat, featuring Deepak Malik, Deputy Director (In-Charge), Surat Regional Office of Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) under the Ministry of Labor & Employment, Government of India.
During the session, Deputy Director Deepak Malik announced that the ESI Act will now extend up to the new limit of Surat Municipal Corporation, beyond its previous restricted areas. Citing the Ministry of Labor of India's 1992 notification, he clarified the expansion of ESI coverage and encouraged stakeholders to obtain the ESI code number promptly. A letter has also been sent to the Ministry of Labor of India concerning the responsibility of backlog, with a reply expected soon.
Surat city, with an area of 462 square kilometers, currently hosts only four ESI hospitals. In response to the need for better infrastructure, increased recruitment of doctors, and the construction of new hospitals, Malik promised the Chamber of Commerce that he would advocate for these improvements within higher departments.
A noteworthy commitment was made regarding support for primary hospitals in Valsad and Umargam. If arranged by a private company, ESIC will provide Rs. 500 per worker per year along with additional assistance, and higher officials will visit all areas and hospitals in Surat and Valsad to ensure necessary basic facilities.
The session was punctuated by active participation from attendees, who asked questions and raised concerns. Nikhil Madrasi, Honorary Minister of the Chamber of Commerce, provided the welcome address, and the entire session was skillfully moderated by Sohail Sawani, Chairman of the Chamber's Labor Law Committee. The event culminated in Deputy Director Malik satisfactorily addressing the confusions and technical problems raised, reflecting a positive and proactive approach towards enhancing healthcare services for Surat's workforce.
