ESIC Extends SPREE 2025 Registration Scheme Till Jan 31, 2026

New Delhi, Jan 1 (KNN) The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has extended the Scheme for Promotion of Registration of Employers and Employees (SPREE 2025) by one month, following representations from employers, employer associations and State governments. 

The scheme, originally scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2025, will now remain operational until January 31, 2026.

SPREE 2025 has been in effect since July 1, 2025, with the objective of expanding social security coverage under the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act by encouraging voluntary registration of unregistered establishments and workers.

The scheme was approved during the 196th meeting of the ESI Corporation held in Shimla and chaired by Union Minister for Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. 

It is designed to provide a one-time opportunity for employers and employees who are outside the ESI framework to regularise their status without facing inspections or demands for past dues.

Under SPREE 2025, employers and employees can register digitally through the ESIC, Shram Suvidha and Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portals. Registration becomes effective from the date declared by the employer.

Establishments that were previously unregistered will continue to benefit from key relaxations under the scheme, including waiver of past contribution demands, exemption from inspections and no requirement to submit prior records, provided they complete registration within the extended period.

However, ESIC has clarified that establishments failing to register under the ESI Scheme by January 31, 2026, will be liable to pay past contributions along with applicable damages and interest, in addition to facing legal action and penalties as per the ESI Act.

(KNN  Bureau)