Healthcare boost: Union minister opens ₹211-crore ESIC OPD block in Hyderabad

Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday inaugurated a new Outpatient Department (OPD) block at the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Medical College and Hospital in Sanathnagar, Hyderabad. The facility, built at a cost of ₹211.13 crore, is expected to strengthen healthcare services for more than 12.3 lakh insured persons and beneficiaries across Telangana.

Speaking at the event, Mandaviya highlighted the expansion of social security coverage in India. He stated that the number of ESIC beneficiaries had increased from approximately 7.5 crore a decade ago to over 15 crore at present. Citing International Labour Organisation estimates, he said India's social security coverage rose from 19% in 2014 to more than 64%, covering about 94 crore people.

The new OPD block, spanning a constructed area of 43,611.04 square metres, will provide outpatient services to 12,30,183 insured persons and beneficiaries from Hyderabad, Medchal Malkajgiri, Sangareddy, Rangareddy and Mahabubnagar districts. As an ESIC medical college and hospital, the facility will also cater to insured persons from across Telangana.

The ESIC scheme, governed by the Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948, provides medical and cash benefits to workers and their families. The new OPD block is part of ongoing efforts to upgrade facilities under the ESIC framework, aiming to enhance accessibility and quality of care for insured individuals.

The inauguration comes amid broader government initiatives to increase health infrastructure, such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme. However, the ESIC operates independently under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, focusing on formal sector workers. The new block is expected to reduce waiting times and decongest existing facilities, improving patient experience.