(a)whether the Government proposes to extend the benefits under the ESIC and EPF for construction workers, auto and cycle-rickshaw drivers, Anganwadi and ASHA workers in a phased manner; and
(b)if so, the details thereof along with the steps taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE (IC) FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
(SHRI BANDARU DATTATREYA)
(a) & (b): So far as benefits under Employees’ State Insurance Scheme are concerned, the ESIC has already launched/approved two separate schemes to provide medical facilities to selected category of self-employed workers like Auto-rickshaw drivers and Domestic workers and their family members on pilot basis at Delhi/Hyderabad. Construction workers in offices of the construction agency situated in the implemented areas were already covered under ESI Scheme. Subsequently, w.e.f. 01.08.2015, ESI Scheme has also been extended to the construction site workers deployed in implemented areas.
With regard to Employees Provident Fund, the EPF & MP Act, 1952 has been extended to establishments engaged in Building and Construction Industries w.e.f. 31.10.1980. The workers engaged by these establishments are extended EPF benefits subject to the provisions of EPF & MP Act, 1952.
Further, for extending the social security benefits to Scheme workers like Anganwadi, ASHA and Mid-day Meal workers, a Committee has been set up under the Chairpersonship of Secretary (Labour & Employment).
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