ESIC Stenographer ESIC Stenographer Main Exam

ESIC Stenographer: A Secure Clerical Career in a Premier Organization

The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Stenographer exam is a significant opportunity for candidates with 12th-grade qualifications and stenography skills to secure a stable government job. Stenographers in ESIC handle crucial tasks like dictation, transcription, and maintaining official records, forming the backbone of administrative support in the organization. This role offers a respectable salary under the 7th Pay Commission, comprehensive benefits, and a well-defined career path within a leading social security organization in India, making it a highly desirable position.

Salary, Perks, and Career Growth

A career as an ESIC Stenographer offers job security and a host of benefits.

Salary Structure: The post of Stenographer comes under Pay Level-4 of the 7th Pay Commission, with a pay scale of ₹25,500 - ₹81,100. The initial in-hand salary, including allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance (TA), is quite attractive.

Comprehensive Benefits: ESIC employees enjoy extensive benefits, including medical care for themselves and their dependents, sickness benefits, maternity benefits, and a pension plan under the National Pension System (NPS). The social security coverage provided by ESIC is one of the best in the country.

Career Progression: A Stenographer has a clear promotional channel. Based on seniority and performance, they can be promoted to higher grades. By clearing departmental exams, they can also transition to the role of Upper Division Clerk (UDC) and subsequently rise to the level of Assistant and Social Security Officer, opening up significant career advancement opportunities.

ESIC Stenographer Selection Process

The selection process for the ESIC Stenographer post is conducted in two phases:

• Phase I (Main Examination): This is a computer-based objective test. It consists of 200 questions covering English Language & Comprehension, Reasoning Ability, and General Awareness. The marks obtained in this phase are considered for the final selection. There is a negative marking of 1/4th for each wrong answer. [2, 14]
• Phase II (Skill Test): Candidates who qualify in Phase I are shortlisted for the Skill Test, which is qualifying in nature. This includes a Stenography Test where candidates are given a dictation for 10 minutes at a speed of 80 words per minute in either English or Hindi. They then have to transcribe the matter on a computer. [2, 36]

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Education: Candidates must have passed the 12th standard (Higher Secondary) or equivalent from a recognized board. [33]
• Stenography Skill: A dictation speed of 80 words per minute in English or Hindi is required. [33]
• Age Limit: The age limit is generally between 18 and 27 years, with relaxations for reserved categories. [33]

How to Apply for the ESIC Stenographer Exam

The application for the ESIC Stenographer exam is submitted online through the official ESIC website.

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the ESIC official website at www.esic.gov.in.
2. Navigate to Recruitment: On the homepage, find and click on the "Recruitment" tab.
3. Find the Notification: Look for the recruitment notification for the post of Stenographer and click on the link to apply online.
4. Registration: Register yourself by providing your basic details to get a registration ID and password.
5. Fill the Application Form: Log in and fill the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
6. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other required documents as per the specified format.
7. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online. The fee is typically ₹500 for General/OBC candidates and ₹250 for SC/ST/PwD/Female candidates (the latter is often refundable upon appearing for the exam).
8. Final Submission: Review the application form thoroughly before submitting it. It is advisable to take a printout of the final submitted form for your records.