Under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Act 1948, which of the following is a contributory benefit that requires a minimum contribution period before eligibility?
- A Medical benefit from the first day of insured employment
- B Maternity benefit is available without any minimum contribution period
- C Sickness benefit requires contribution for 78 days in a contribution period of 6 months ✓
- D Disablement benefit (permanent) is available only after 2 years of contribution
Correct answer: C. Sickness benefit requires contribution for 78 days in a contribution period of 6 months
Explanation
Under ESI Act 1948, sickness benefit (cash benefit equal to approximately 70% of wages during certified sickness) requires a minimum of 78 days of contribution in the relevant contribution period (6 months). Medical benefit is available from day 1 of insurable employment. Maternity benefit requires at least 70 days of contribution in the two preceding contribution periods. Permanent disablement benefit is available even if only one day of contribution has been made, provided the disability arose from employment injury.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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