India has one of the world’s largest unorganised workforces. Millions of people work daily as labourers, domestic helpers, street vendors, delivery partners, construction workers, and farm workers—often without job security, insurance, or social benefits.
To protect these workers, the Government of India launched the E‑Shram Yojana, under which every registered worker receives a 12-digit E-Shram Card (UAN).
This article explains what the E-Shram Card is, why it was introduced, who should apply, its benefits, and how it helps unorganised workers across India.
What Is the E-Shram Card?
The E-Shram Card is a national identity card for unorganised sector workers. It contains a Universal Account Number (UAN) that remains valid for life and is recognised across all states and union territories.
The card stores essential worker data such as:
Name
Occupation
Address
Skill category
Bank details (for Direct Benefit Transfer)
This data helps the government provide social security schemes, insurance benefits, and emergency assistance directly to workers.
What Is E-Shram Yojana?
E-Shram Yojana is a central government initiative launched by the Ministry of Labour & Employment to create a national database of unorganised workers (NDUW).
Key Objectives of E-Shram Yojana
Identify unorganised workers nationwide
Provide social security benefits
Enable direct government support during crises
Improve employment planning and policy making
Why Was the E-Shram Card Introduced?
Before E-Shram, unorganised workers faced major problems:
❌ Problems Before E-Shram
No official worker identity
No insurance coverage
No central record
Delayed or missed government benefits
No emergency financial support
✅ How E-Shram Solves These Issues
One national worker ID
Automatic linkage to schemes
Direct benefit transfers
Nationwide portability
Who Are Unorganised Workers?
Unorganised workers are individuals who:
Do not have a fixed employer
Do not receive PF, ESIC, or pension
Work on daily wages, contracts, or self-employment
Examples:
Construction labourers
Housemaids & domestic helpers
Street vendors & hawkers
Gig workers (delivery riders, drivers)
Agricultural labourers
Key Features of E-Shram Card
Here are the main features that make E-Shram important:
✔ Free Registration
No application fee is charged on the official portal.
✔ Lifetime Validity
Once issued, the card remains valid for life.
✔ Pan-India Acceptance
The card works across all Indian states—even if the worker migrates.
✔ Aadhaar-Linked
Ensures authenticity and prevents duplicate registrations.
✔ Centralised Database
Helps the government design future welfare schemes.
Benefits of Having an E-Shram Card
Although E-Shram itself is not a cash scheme, it unlocks multiple benefits:
🔹 Accident Insurance
₹2,00,000 for accidental death or permanent disability
₹1,00,000 for partial disability
🔹 Access to Government Schemes
E-Shram workers are prioritised for:
Pension schemes
Insurance schemes
State welfare programs
🔹 Emergency Financial Assistance
During pandemics or disasters, registered workers may receive direct bank transfers.
🔹 Employment & Skill Mapping
Helps workers get:
Skill training
Better job opportunities
Policy-based support
Documents Required for E-Shram Card
To register, workers need:
Aadhaar Card
Aadhaar-linked mobile number
Bank account details
Occupation information
👉 No income certificate or caste certificate is required.
Is E-Shram Card Mandatory?
The E-Shram Card is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for unorganised workers because:
It increases eligibility for benefits
It provides insurance coverage
It helps in future government assistance
Common Myths About E-Shram Card
❌ Myth: E-Shram Card gives monthly money
✅ Truth: Money is given only through linked schemes
❌ Myth: Only labourers can apply
✅ Truth: All unorganised workers can apply
❌ Myth: Card expires
✅ Truth: It is lifetime valid
Why Every Unorganised Worker Should Apply
The E-Shram Card is more than an ID—it is financial protection, recognition, and security for workers who form the backbone of India’s economy.
By registering, workers ensure:
Government recognition
Insurance protection
Easier access to welfare schemes
Conclusion
The E-Shram Card is a powerful initiative that bridges the gap between unorganised workers and government welfare systems. With free registration, lifetime validity, and nationwide benefits, it plays a crucial role in improving the lives of millions of Indian workers.
If you are an unorganised worker, applying for the E-Shram Card is one of the smartest and safest decisions you can make today.