Government Schemes📖 2 min read

E-Shram Portal for Gig Workers: Registration and Benefits

The Indian government has launched the E-Shram portal to create a national database for unorganised workers, including those in the gig economy.

Source: GNews Govt Launch
Summary of News

The E-Shram portal is a national database for unorganised workers, including gig workers from platforms like Zepto, Ola, and Zomato. Launched by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, it aims to register 38 crore unorganised workers. Workers can register themselves on the E-Shram portal using their Aadhaar number, bank account details, and mobile number. Upon successful registration, they receive an E-Shram card with a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN). This portal helps the government extend social security benefits and welfare schemes to these workers. It also allows for better tracking and policy formulation for the unorganised sector, which forms a significant part of India's workforce. The E-Shram portal is a crucial step towards formalising and protecting the rights of workers who often lack traditional employment benefits.

Why It Matters

This topic is important for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper II (Government Policies and Interventions) and SSC General Awareness. Aspirants should understand the E-Shram portal's purpose, target beneficiaries, and its role in social security for unorganised workers. It reflects the government's efforts to address challenges in the informal economy and promote inclusive growth.

Key Points for Exam
  • E-Shram portal launched by Ministry of Labour & Employment.
  • Aims to register 38 crore unorganised workers across India.
  • Provides a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) on the E-Shram card.
  • Target beneficiaries include gig workers, migrant workers, and street vendors.
  • The portal facilitates delivery of social security schemes to unorganised workers.
  • It is a national database for unorganised workers.
Important Keywords Explained
E-Shram Portalscheme

The E-Shram portal is a national database for unorganised workers in India. It was launched by the Ministry of Labour & Employment to register and provide social security benefits to workers in the informal sector. Workers receive a unique 12-digit UAN after registration.

Unorganised Workerconcept

An unorganised worker is someone who works in the unorganised sector and is not covered by any specific labour law or social security scheme. This includes self-employed individuals, daily wage earners, domestic workers, and gig workers.

Gig Workerconcept

A gig worker is an independent contractor, online platform worker, contract firm worker, or a temporary worker. They are typically engaged in short-term contracts or freelance work, often through digital platforms like food delivery or ride-sharing apps.

Additional Facts & Context
1The E-Shram portal was launched on August 26, 2021.
2Over 29 crore unorganised workers have registered on the E-Shram portal as of early 2024.
3Workers aged 16-59 years are eligible to register on the portal.
4The portal is integrated with the National Career Service (NCS) portal.
Examiner's Tip

UPSC often asks about government initiatives for social security and labour welfare. SSC exams may focus on the launch year, ministry, or key features like the UAN. Banking exams might test the target beneficiaries or associated schemes.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'E-Shram' as 'Electronic Labour' portal, helping unorganised workers get 'E-Security' and 'E-Benefits' with their 'E-Card' (UAN).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of the E-Shram portal for unorganised workers?

The E-Shram portal's main purpose is to create a comprehensive national database of unorganised workers. This database helps the government identify these workers and extend various social security and welfare schemes to them, ensuring their protection and well-being.

Who is eligible to register on the E-Shram portal?

Any unorganised worker between the age of 16 and 59 years is eligible to register on the E-Shram portal. This includes gig workers, migrant workers, construction workers, domestic workers, agricultural labourers, and street vendors, among others.

What benefits do workers get after registering on the E-Shram portal?

Upon registration, workers receive an E-Shram card with a 12-digit UAN. They become eligible for various social security schemes, including accidental insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and other future welfare benefits.

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