ESIC Unveils SPREE 2025 to Enhance Employee Registration for Social Security

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has introduced SPREE 2025, a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance social security coverage by encouraging the registration of unregistered employers and employees. This program, running from July 1 to December 31, 2025, allows for penalty-free enrollment, simplifying the registration process and removing the fear of retrospective penalties. With digital registration options and a focus on informal and contract workers, SPREE 2025 aims to significantly increase participation in the ESI Act, aligning with ESIC's mission for universal social protection in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2025, 13:58 IST

Introduction to SPREE 2025

SHIMLA: In a pivotal initiative to broaden social security coverage, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has launched SPREE 2025, a special campaign aimed at increasing the registration of both employers and employees. This decision was made during the 196th ESIC meeting chaired by Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Labour & Employment, Youth Affairs & Sports.

Details of the SPREE 2025 Initiative

SPREE (Scheme to Promote Registration of Employers and Employees) 2025 is a limited-time program that provides a unique chance for unregistered employers and workers, including those in temporary and contract roles, to register under the ESI Act without incurring penalties, inspections, or the obligation to pay past dues.

This initiative will be available from July 1 to December 31, 2025, and aims to foster voluntary compliance by alleviating concerns over retrospective penalties and streamlining the registration process.

Key Features of SPREE 2025

Highlights of SPREE 2025 include:
• Digital registration is facilitated via the ESIC portal, labour facilitation portal, and MCA portal.
• The registration will be effective from the date specified by the employer.
• No contributions or benefits will apply for the period before registration.
• There will be no inspections or demands for previous records prior to enrollment.

This progressive policy represents a shift from previous practices where delays in registration often resulted in legal actions and recovery of backdated dues. SPREE 2025 aims to eliminate these obstacles, targeting the inclusion of establishments and workers, especially those in informal and contract sectors, into the social security framework.

Impact of SPREE 2025

By simplifying the enrollment process and offering protection from retrospective liabilities, SPREE 2025 is anticipated to significantly enhance the coverage under the ESI Act. This scheme aligns with ESIC’s broader goal of fostering a welfare-oriented labour ecosystem in India and enhancing its outreach in pursuit of universal social protection.