Introduction
India’s unorganised sector forms the backbone of the country’s economy, employing over 90% of the workforce. However, these workers often lack social security, health benefits, and formal recognition. To address this gap, the Government of India launched the E-Shram portal and introduced the E-Shram Labour Card in August 2021. The scheme is designed to create a comprehensive database of unorganised workers, enabling them to access various welfare schemes and government benefits with ease. It is an important step towards ensuring inclusive growth and social protection for those who contribute silently to the nation’s development.
Objectives of the E-Shram Labour Card
The E-Shram Labour Card aims to:
- Register unorganised workers from different sectors like agriculture, construction, domestic work, street vending, fishing, and gig economy jobs.
- Provide a universal identity through a 12-digit unique number linked with Aadhaar.
- Enable direct benefit transfer (DBT) of government schemes to workers’ bank accounts.
- Ensure social security by linking workers to pension, insurance, maternity benefits, and skill development programs.
- Facilitate better policy-making by creating an accurate national database of unorganised workers.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the E-Shram Labour Card, a person must:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Be aged between 16 and 59 years.
- Work in the unorganised sector (not covered by EPFO, ESIC, or NPS).
- Have a valid Aadhaar card and mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
- Possess a bank account.
Registration Process
The registration process is free and can be completed online or through Common Service Centres (CSCs).
- Online Registration:
- Visit the official E-Shram portal (eshram.gov.in).
- Click on “Register on E-Shram” and enter the Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Verify through OTP, fill in personal details, occupation, address, and bank account details.
- Submit and download the E-Shram card.
- Offline Registration:
- Visit the nearest CSC with Aadhaar and bank details.
- The operator will fill in the form and issue the card.
Benefits of the E-Shram Labour Card
- Insurance Coverage: Workers get accidental insurance cover of ₹2 lakh under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY).
- Social Security Schemes: Easy access to pension schemes like Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana (PMSYM).
- Direct Benefit Transfers: Government aid during emergencies, such as COVID-19 relief, can be sent directly to the worker’s bank account.
- Skill Development: Workers can access free or subsidised skill training programs to enhance employability.
- Portability: The card is valid across India, allowing migrant workers to claim benefits anywhere.
- Financial Inclusion: Helps in opening bank accounts and availing loans at lower interest rates.
Challenges and Limitations
While the E-Shram Labour Card is a progressive step, it faces some challenges:
- Awareness Gap: Many workers, especially in rural areas, are unaware of the scheme.
- Digital Divide: Limited internet access and digital literacy hinder online registration.
- Data Accuracy: Maintaining updated records is difficult due to high mobility of workers.
- Integration Issues: Linking the database with other government welfare schemes is still in progress.
Impact
Since its launch, over 28 crore workers have registered on the portal, representing various trades from street vendors to domestic helpers. It has improved targeting of government benefits and created a foundation for universal social security in India.
Conclusion
The E-Shram Labour Card is a landmark initiative to bring unorganised workers into the formal social security net. By providing them with a unique identity and access to multiple welfare schemes, it empowers millions who were previously overlooked in policymaking. While challenges like awareness and data management remain, consistent government efforts and community participation can make E-Shram a game-changer for India’s labour force. Ultimately, the success of this scheme will not just uplift individual workers but also strengthen the nation’s economic resilience and social equity.