Under the ESI Act 1948, contribution periods run from 1 April to 30 September and from 1 October to 31 March, each linked to a corresponding benefit period. If an insured worker falls sick in July 2025, his sickness benefit entitlement depends on contributions made during which period?

• A 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2025
• B 1 April 2025 to 30 September 2025
• C 1 April 2024 to 30 September 2024
• D 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025 ✓

Explanation

Each contribution period generates a benefit period beginning six months later: contributions paid from 1 October to 31 March earn benefits during the following 1 July to 31 December. D July 2025 illness therefore falls in the benefit period July to December 2025, funded by contributions from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025. Option C funds the January to June benefit window, not July onwards.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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