An insured person under the ESI Act 1948 is diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis and is certified continuously unfit for work beyond the normal sickness benefit period. He is entitled to Extended Sickness Benefit. What are the correct rate and duration for this benefit?
- A 80 percent of wages for a maximum of 91 days, extendable to 309 days over the insured person's lifetime ✓
- B 70 percent of wages for a maximum of 91 days
- C 90 percent of wages for a maximum of 124 days
- D 80 percent of wages for a maximum of 56 days
Correct answer: A. 80 percent of wages for a maximum of 91 days, extendable to 309 days over the insured person's lifetime
Explanation
Extended Sickness Benefit applies to the 34 specified long-duration diseases listed under the ESI scheme, including tuberculosis, malignant neoplasms, leprosy, and mental illnesses. It pays 80 percent of average daily wages for a maximum of 91 days, extendable to 309 days in a lifetime after 2 years of insurable employment. The 70 percent figure belongs to ordinary sickness benefit, which is limited to 91 days in any benefit period.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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