Nandyal MP Demands Staffing for New ESIC Office and Local EPFO Expansion
MP Dr. Byreddy Shabari addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the operational gaps in Nandyal's welfare services. While welcoming the new ESIC branch, she noted a lack of staff and the absence of a local EPFO office for workers.
Staffing Shortfalls and Operational Delays
During the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha on Monday, July 27, 2026, Nandyal MP and TDP national general secretary Dr. Byreddy Shabari expressed appreciation for the Central government's decision to open a new Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) branch in Nandyal. However, she raised concerns that the facility currently lacks regular personnel. Shabari requested immediate clarification from the government regarding the timeline for appointing sanctioned staff to ensure the office functions effectively for local workers.
Technical and administrative delays are currently hindering the reimbursement process for insured individuals. While ESIC regulations mandate that medical expense claims must be settled within 21 to 30 days, Shabari reported that workers in her constituency often wait six to eight months to receive their payments. She urged the Ministry of Labour to address these systemic inefficiencies.
The Push for Local EPFO Infrastructure
The MP emphasized the logistical burden placed on laborers following the reorganization of Andhra Pradesh. Many new districts, including Nandyal, still lack dedicated Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) offices. Currently, workers must travel to older headquarters like Kurnool to access essential services. Shabari formally questioned the government on whether proposals exist to establish dedicated EPFO offices in these new administrative zones and when such plans might be executed.
Industrial Growth and Labor Welfare Enforcement
The industrial outlook for the Rayalaseema region includes significant expansion, with the TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh securing investment proposals worth approximately ₹4.58 lakh crore. These projects are expected to create roughly 3.57 lakh jobs. Shabari warned that without better enforcement, the growing workforce could face the same hurdles currently experienced by contract and migrant employees.
- Estimated regional investment: ₹4.58 lakh crore
- Projected employment generation: 3.57 lakh positions
- Goal: Strengthening contractor compliance with ESIC and EPFO regulations
She concluded by calling on the Union Minister of Labour to ensure contractors strictly follow statutory benefit laws, preventing further delays for the state's labor force.
Source: The Hindu — News
