SPREE 2025: A fresh start for employers and employees

Introduction:

In a significant move to expand social security coverage, the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has launched the Scheme for Promotion of Registration of Employers and Employees (SPREE) 2025. This initiative, active from July 1 to December 31, 2025, offers a unique opportunity for unregistered employers and employees including contractual and temporary workers to enroll in the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) system without facing retrospective penalties or inspections.

SPREE 2025 is designed to encourage voluntary compliance by removing the fear of retrospective penalties and simplifying the registration process. Previously, non-registration within specified timeframes could result in legal action and demand for backdated dues. SPREE 2025 addresses these barriers, aiming to bring left-out establishments and workers into the ESI fold and ensure broader social protection. Employers can digitally register their units and employees via the ESIC Portal, Shram Suvidha, or the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal. Registration will be considered valid from the date declared by the employer, and no contribution or benefit will apply for periods prior to registration. No inspection or demand will be made for the pre-registration period.

This scheme eliminates the fear of retrospective penalties and simplifies the registration process to promote voluntary compliance. Previously, non-registration could attract legal action and backdated dues. SPREE 2025 removes these hurdles, aiming to bring more employers and workers into the ESI fold and enhance access to health and social benefits.

Conclusion:

SPREE 2025 marks a progressive step by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation towards inclusive and accessible social security. By simplifying the registration process and offering immunity from retrospective penalties, the scheme encourages employers and employees to come under the ESI system, thereby expanding the safety net for workers across the country.