The monthly wage limit for coverage under the ESI Act would be such as prescribed by the Central Government in the
ESI (Central) Rules 1950. The existing wage ceiling for coverage (excluding remuneration for overtime work) is Rs.15,000/- per month w.e.f. 01/05/2010 (Rule 50 of ESI (Central) Rules 1950). An employee who is coverable at the beginning of a contribution period shall continue to remain covered till the end of that contribution period notwithstanding the fact that his wages may exceed the prescribed wage ceiling at any time after the commencement of that contribution period.

Wage ceiling for purpose of coverage is revised from time to time by the Central Govt. on the specific recommendation of the Corporation

Note:

a) Employees of a covered factory working in non-implemented area can be exempted on application made to the Govt”.
b) An employee of a covered factory or establishment having his Hqrs. Office in a implemented area who remains away for over 7 months in a year, on tour or deployment, can also be exempted on an application made to the “Appropriate Govt”, subject to certain prescribed conditions.
WAGE CEILING LIMIT AS PER SECTION 2(9) OF E.S.I. ACT
From 21.01.1985 to 31.03.1992  Rs.1600
From 01.04.1992 to 31.12.1996  Rs.3000
From 01.07.1997 to 31.03.2004  Rs.6500
From 01.04.2004 to 30.09.2006  Rs.7500
From 01.10.2006 onwards           Rs.10000.
From 01.10.2006 to 30.04.2010  Rs.10,000
From 01.05.2010 to onwards      Rs. 15,000/-