Govt Offering ₹1000 and Free Insurance! Here's How You Can Apply for E-Shram Card from Home
Image source, Md Karim Didar
In India, millions of workers in the unorganized sector often face financial instability, lack of job security, and no formal access to social welfare schemes. From daily wage earners and street vendors to agricultural workers and rickshaw drivers these individuals form the backbone of the Indian economy, yet often remain outside the formal safety net.
To address this issue, the Government of India launched the E-Shram Card scheme, a comprehensive effort to register unorganized workers and provide them with social security benefits. If you’re someone working in this sector, this scheme can offer you ₹1000 financial assistance, ₹2 lakh free insurance, and access to government welfare programs all by registering online from home.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the E-Shram Card its benefits, eligibility, documents needed, and how to apply step by step.
What is the E-Shram Card?
The E-Shram Card is a digital identification card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. It is specifically designed for unorganized sector workers. It stores key information like your name, age, occupation, location, Aadhaar number, and bank account, and links you to a unique Universal Account Number (UAN).
This UAN becomes your permanent ID across all future social security schemes. With this card, the government aims to build a centralized database to provide direct benefits to registered workers.
Key Benefits of E-Shram Card
1. Direct Financial Support (₹500–₹1000)
Some state governments are offering monthly cash transfers between ₹500 and ₹1000 to E-Shram cardholders to support their livelihood. This benefit is credited directly into the bank account linked with the card.
2. Free Accidental Insurance up to ₹2 Lakh
Under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), E-Shram cardholders automatically receive:
₹2 lakh compensation in case of accidental death or permanent disability
₹1 lakh for partial disability
The government pays the entire insurance premium, so the worker gets this coverage at zero cost.
3. Pension Benefit after Age 60
Registered E-Shram workers can opt for a monthly pension of ₹3,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana (PM-SYM) after the age of 60. Workers must contribute a small monthly amount during their working years, and the government matches this contribution equally.
4. Eligibility for Other Government Schemes
Once registered with a UAN, workers can automatically become eligible for:
Health welfare schemes
Maternity benefits
Housing schemes
Educational assistance for children
Emergency disaster support
Ration card or public distribution benefits
5. Unified Identity Across India
The UAN (Universal Account Number) issued with the E-Shram Card stays valid for life. It connects a worker’s data with government records and ensures portability even if the worker migrates from one state to another.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply for the E-Shram Card if you meet the following conditions
✅ Eligibility Criteria
You are an Indian citizen
Your age is between 16 and 59 years
You work in the unorganized sector, such as
Construction
Farming or agricultural labor
Street vending
Rickshaw or auto driving
Domestic work (maid, cook, cleaner)
Handicrafts and textile work
Freelance electrician, plumber, carpenter, etc.
You are not already enrolled in EPFO, ESIC, or NPS (organized sector schemes)
You possess a valid Aadhaar number and mobile number linked to Aadhaar
You have an active bank account
Documents Required for Registration
To apply for the E-Shram Card, keep the following documents ready
1. Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
2. Mobile Number linked with Aadhaar (for OTP verification
3. Bank Account Details
4. IFSC Code of Bank Branch
5. Address Proof (can be Aadhaar, Voter ID, utility bill)
6. Age Proof (DOB mentioned on Aadhaar or another valid document)
7. Passport-size Photo (optional but useful)
How to Apply for E-Shram Card from Home, Step-by-Step Process
You can apply online for free from your smartphone, computer, or at a nearby CSC (Common Service Centre).
Option 1: Self-Registration Online
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official E-Shram website: https://eshram.gov.in
Step 2: Click on “Self Registration”
On the homepage, select the "Self Registration" option.
Step 3: Enter Aadhaar-linked Mobile Number
Provide your 10-digit mobile number that is linked with your Aadhaar card.
Step 4: Fill in the Captcha and Click “Send OTP”
You’ll receive a one-time password (OTP). Enter it to proceed.
Step 5: Enter Aadhaar Number and Consent
Input your Aadhaar number and give your consent for authentication.
Step 6: Fill in Details
Complete the form with
Personal details (Name, DOB, Gender)
Occupation and skill type
Education
Income range
Address
Step 7: Add Bank Details
Provide your account number, bank name, and IFSC code.
Step 8: Submit and Generate UAN
After submission, your E-Shram Card will be generated along with your Universal Account Number (UAN).
Step 9: Download and Save the Card
You can download the card immediately in PDF format or later via DigiLocker.
Option 2 Apply at a Common Service Centre (CSC)
If you don’t have internet access or face difficulties online, visit any authorized CSC center. Carry your Aadhaar and bank passbook. The operator will complete the registration and provide your printed card.
You can locate the nearest CSC using https://locator.csccloud.in/
How to Download E-Shram Card Later
You can always download your card again from
DigiLocker
1. Visit https://digilocker.gov.in
2. Login with your Aadhaar number and OTP
3. Search for “E-Shram Card”
4. Download and save or print it
OR
E-Shram Portal:
1. Go to https://eshram.gov.in
2. Click on “Update” or “Already Registered”
3. Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
4. Login with OTP and download the card
Important FAQs
Q1. Is there any fee for registration?
No, the process is completely free of cost. You do not have to pay any agent or CSC.
Q2. Can I register if my Aadhaar is not linked with a mobile number?
Online registration requires Aadhaar OTP. If your Aadhaar is not linked, visit a CSC.
Q3. Can students or housewives register?
Only if they are actively involved in any economic activity in the unorganized sector.
Q4. What happens after registration?
You get your UAN and E-Shram card. Insurance becomes active immediately. Pension benefits require separate enrollment under PM-SYM.
Q5. Can I edit my information later?
Yes. You can update mobile number, occupation, bank account, and address via the portal.
Q6. Is this a one-time process?
Yes. Once registered, your card and UAN remain valid for life. Just ensure your details stay updated.
Why the E-Shram Card Matters
India’s unorganized sector employs over 90% of the country’s workforce. Until recently, most of these workers lacked access to any formal government support. The E-Shram Card is a strategic move to bring this massive segment under the welfare umbrella.
It empowers the government to
Deliver direct benefits efficiently during emergencies
Maintain real-time employment data
Reduce exploitation of informal labor
Extend universal coverage of welfare schemes
For workers, this card is more than just a digital document. It acts as a proof of identity, financial protection, and a gateway to long-term social security.
Take Action Now
If you or someone in your family works in the informal sector, don’t delay. The E-Shram Card takes just 10–15 minutes to register, but it can provide a lifetime of benefits. From accident insurance to pension planning and financial aid the advantages are real, and the process is entirely free.
Register today from the comfort of your home, or visit the nearest CSC to complete the application.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for public awareness. Readers should verify details from the official website https://eshram.gov.in or visit local CSC centers for assistance.
Original content by rooh-e-seemanchal.in
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