ESIC Plans Major Expansion: 20 New Medical Colleges to Boost Access for Millions.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering affordable healthcare access, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has announced its decision to establish 20 new medical colleges across the country within the next two years. This expansion is poised to benefit a substantial 3.72 crore insured workers and their families under the Corporation's umbrella.

Minister of Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya revealed on Tuesday that the initial phase of this ambitious plan includes the exploration of opening 10 new medical colleges in the fiscal year 2025-26. The proposed locations for these institutions span several states, including Pune and Nagpur in Maharashtra, Manesar in Haryana, Kollam in Kerala, Surat in Gujarat, Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Bhubaneshwar in Odisha, Asansol in West Bengal, Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, and Margaon in Goa.

Ministry sources highlighted the timely nature of this initiative, particularly against the backdrop of increasingly expensive private healthcare. Once these new institutions are operational, the total number of ESIC medical colleges will rise to 31, comprising 28 directly managed by the Corporation and an additional three run in collaboration with state governments. This significant increase in medical infrastructure underscores ESIC's commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare to its vast beneficiary base. The establishment of these medical colleges is expected to significantly enhance the availability of medical education and improve the overall healthcare ecosystem for ESIC beneficiaries.

HBL