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No, the iPad 9.7 does not support eSIM.
eSIM is a new technology that allows you to use mobile plans without inserting a physical SIM Card. The iPad 9.7 was designed to work with traditional SIM cards, not eSIM technology.
If you want to use eSIM, consider upgrading to a newer iPad that offers this feature, starting from the 2018 iPad Pro models which include both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch versions. Check out updated list of eSIM-compatible iPads.
Note: eSIM availability are only available on iPads with 4G connectivity.