NEW DELHI: Union govt on Thursday launched a nationwide free annual health checkup initiative for all workers aged 40 and above under the new labour codes, which were notified on Nov 21 last year. Labour minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the free checkups will be conducted yearly across the country as “early detection through health screenings can help prevent serious diseases, and treatment and medicines will be provided through ESIC facilities.” He saidworkers engaged in hazardous occupations and those working even in establishments with fewer than 10 workers are being brought under ESIC coverage. The minister said provisions for equal wages for men and women have been ensured, maternity leave increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks, and work-from-home provisions for women incorporated.