Overview
Government Launches Free Annual Health Check-Up for Workers Above 40
On 7 May 2026 , the Union Labour Ministry of India started a new nationwide scheme. This scheme gives a free annual health check-up to all insured workers who are above 40 years of age . The goal is simple: find health problems early. The government runs this scheme through Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) hospitals and their affiliated centres. The legal basis for this scheme comes from the Code on Social Security, 2020 .
What the Scheme Offers
Every year, eligible workers get a full health screening. The check-up looks for early signs of:
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Heart diseases (cardiovascular diseases)
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Diabetes
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High blood pressure (hypertension)
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Illnesses caused by the workplace (occupational illnesses)
If the tests find any problem, the worker gets treatment and medicines for free through ESIC facilities. This means no extra cost for the worker or their family.
How ESIC Rolled Out the Scheme
The official launch happened at ESIC Medical College & Hospital in Basaidarapur, Delhi . At the same time, 11 other ESIC hospitals across India also started the scheme. This shows that the government wants to reach workers in many cities from day one.
First Day in Jaipur: A Good Example
At ESIC Medical College and Hospital in Jaipur , 300 insured workers above 40 got their tests on the very first day. The doctors and staff conducted the following tests:
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Diabetes screening (blood sugar test)
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Blood pressure measurement
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Cholesterol testing
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Anaemia testing (to check low red blood cells)
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ECG (to check heart rhythm)
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Chest X-ray (to check lungs and heart shape)
This package covers the most common health problems in older workers.
Special Rule for Hazardous Jobs
The scheme has an important extra rule. Workers in hazardous occupations can get mandatory medical check-ups regardless of their age . This means even if they are younger than 40, they must be checked regularly. Hazardous jobs include:
This rule protects workers who face higher health risks every day.
Connection to Social Security and Labour Codes
The Code on Social Security, 2020 is one of four Labour Codes in India. This new health scheme is a direct benefit under that code. ESIC has been providing medical and social security benefits to insured workers and their dependants for many years.
Social security coverage in India has grown a lot. A decade ago, only about 30 crore people had coverage. Now, around 94 crore beneficiaries enjoy social security benefits. This new scheme will add more value to their healthcare.
Worker Welfare Under Shramev Jayate
The government has linked this initiative to the Shramev Jayate framework. This framework focuses on worker welfare and dignity. Regular health check-ups keep workers healthy. Healthy workers work better and live longer.
FAQ Section
Q1: Who can get this free annual check-up?
Any worker who is insured under ESIC and is above 40 years of age. The worker must be registered with ESIC and have an active insurance number.
Q2: Do I have to pay for the tests or medicines?
No. Everything is free. The check-up, all tests, and any medicines prescribed are provided through ESIC facilities at no cost.
Q3: What if I work in a hazardous job but I am only 30 years old?
You still get mandatory medical check-ups. Age does not matter for hazardous occupations. Your employer must arrange these tests for you.
Q4: How often will I get this check-up?
Once every year. The scheme is called "annual" health check-up, so you will get it every 12 months.
Q5: Where do I go for the tests?
You can visit any ESIC hospital or an affiliated centre that partners with ESIC. The nearest ESIC dispensary can also guide you.
Q6: What if the tests find a serious disease like heart problem?
ESIC will provide full treatment and medicines. You may also be referred to a specialist within the ESIC network. No extra payment is needed.
Q7: Is this scheme available in villages or only in cities?
ESIC has centres in many districts. The government plans to expand coverage. Check with your local ESIC office to confirm availability in your area.
Exam-Focused Points
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Launch date: 7 May 2026
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Launching body: Union Labour Ministry
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Beneficiaries: Insured ESIC workers above 40 years of age
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Legal basis: Code on Social Security, 2020 (one of four Labour Codes in India)
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Diseases covered: Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, occupational illnesses
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Tests included: Diabetes, BP, cholesterol, anaemia, ECG, chest X-ray (as seen in Jaipur)
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Hazardous occupations: Chemical handling, toxic substance exposure, heavy machinery – have mandatory check-ups regardless of age
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ESIC role: Provides medical and social security benefits to workers and dependants
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Coverage growth: From ~30 crore people a decade ago to ~94 crore beneficiaries now
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Framework link: Shramev Jayate (worker welfare and dignity)