Priests and Religious Learn Departmental Compliances in Ranchi

Ranchi, November 6, 2025: Hoffmann Law Associates (HLA), a Jesuit-run law firm based in Ranchi, organised a seminar on departmental compliances related to the Labour Department, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), and Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC). The event, titled “Stay Informed,” was held at the Herman Rasschaert Auditorium of Manresa House, Ranchi, and brought together around 125 participants from various institutions, congregations, and places.

Advocate Anupchand Minj, S.J., Director of HLA, welcomed the participants to the historic venue, describing it as the cradle and epicentre of Catholicism in Chotanagpur. Introducing the seminar’s objectives, he said the main aim was to build personal and professional rapport with officers of the concerned departments. He added that the programme sought to raise awareness among educational and financial administrators and guide them on compliance with the laws and welfare schemes of the Labour, ESIC, and EPFO departments.

Archbishop of Jharkhand, His Grace Vincent Aind, D.D., addressed the audience through an audio-visual message, cautioning that “ignorance is bliss” does not always hold true. He warned that ignorance could lead to serious trouble and that negligence of legal responsibilities might have consequences. “Knowledge of the rules and regulations pertaining to the smooth running of our institutions is no longer optional,” he said.

The seminar featured several sessions covering key topics. In the ESIC session, Mr. Rajiv Ranjan and Mr. Abhishekh Kumar, Regional Director and Assistant Regional Director of ESIC, Jharkhand, respectively, explained the coverage area, eligible institutions, and employee benefits. They detailed contribution rates and benefits such as medical care and cash compensation during sickness or maternity leave. Audio-visual clips demonstrating ESI compliances were also shared for better understanding.

Under Labour Department compliances, Mr. Pradeep Robert Lakra, Additional Joint Commissioner, Government of Jharkhand, discussed various Acts related to minimum wage, maternity leave, gratuity, and the Building and Other Construction Workers Act. He highlighted the mandatory payment of a one percent cess to the departmental bank account for construction works involving more than ten workers or costing over ten lakhs—a revelation that surprised many participants.

The EPFO session focused on employer eligibility, employee enrolment procedures, monthly contributions, return filing, and the use of the EPFO online portal. Drawing from his years of departmental experience, Mr. Vijay Lakra, a retired Senior Social Security Assistant, emphasised the importance of timely filing of returns and accurate maintenance of employee records to avoid penalties. He also cautioned against making PF payments through unauthorised agents.

From a legal perspective, Advocate Vikas Kumar Sinha of the Jharkhand High Court addressed various queries raised by the participants, clarifying complex compliance issues.

Participants described the seminar as highly informative and interactive, noting that it helped clear many of their doubts regarding statutory responsibilities. They appreciated learning that compliance is not merely a legal obligation but also an ethical commitment—an act of justice towards employees, their families, and society at large.

Priests and Religious Learn Departmental Compliances in Ranchi

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