Pension Scheme : If you have this government card, you will get a free pension of ₹3,000 and insurance of ₹2 lakh..!
The Government of India has consistently worked to uplift and support workers in the unorganized sector. In a major step toward this goal, the Ministry of Labour and Employment launched the E-Shram Card initiative in August 2021. This landmark scheme aims to create a national database of unorganized workers and provide them with a Universal Account Number (UAN), streamlining access to various welfare schemes and benefits.
What is the E-Shram Card?
The E-Shram Card is a unique identity card for workers in the unorganized sector. It is part of the E-Shram Portal, India’s first national platform dedicated to informal workers like gig workers, construction laborers, street vendors, domestic helpers, agricultural workers, and more.
Every registered worker receives a 12-digit UAN that remains valid across the country. This centralized database ensures that government assistance reaches the right people more efficiently and transparently.
Key Objectives of the E-Shram Scheme
The E-Shram initiative is designed to:
Create a national database of unorganized workers.
Improve access to social security schemes including insurance, pensions, and employment benefits.
Help the government formulate better policies through reliable data.
Promote skill development and enhance job opportunities.
Who is Eligible to Register?
You can apply for an E-Shram Card if you meet the following criteria:
An Indian citizen aged between 16 and 59 years.
Not a member of EPFO, ESIC, or NPS.
Engaged in informal work such as construction, agriculture, fishing, street vending, domestic work, etc.
How to Apply for the E-Shram Card
Registration is free and easy. You can apply in one of the following ways:
Self-register at https://eshram.gov.in
Visit a Common Service Centre (CSC) near you
Get help from State Government outreach teams
You’ll need:
Aadhaar number
Mobile number linked to Aadhaar
Bank account details
Benefits of the E-Shram Card
✔ ₹2 Lakh Accident Insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
✔ ₹3,000 Monthly Pension under eligible schemes (such as PM-SYM)
✔ Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) for crisis support (e.g., during COVID-19)
✔ Access to Welfare Schemes like PM-KISAN, Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana, and others
✔ Portability of Benefits—continue receiving support even when moving between states
✔ Skill Development and Job Placement assistance for better livelihood opportunities
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the E-Shram scheme has made a significant impact, there are challenges such as:
Limited awareness in rural areas
Digital illiteracy among potential beneficiaries
Difficulty in updating or verifying data
Need for stronger coordination between central and state governments
The government is actively working to overcome these issues by improving digital infrastructure and integrating the E-Shram database with other welfare platforms. In the long run, the E-Shram Card could play a vital role in reshaping labor policies and ensuring that no worker is left behind.
APPLY NOW
Conclusion
The E-Shram Card is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering India’s unorganized workforce. By offering financial security, social protection, and access to government schemes, it brings dignity and inclusion to millions. With ongoing support and awareness, this initiative holds the promise of a more equitable and secure future for all workers.