E-Shram Card Continues to Support Unorganized Workers
The e-Shram Card scheme, launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, aims to create a national database of unorganized workers and connect them with various social security and welfare schemes. The portal has issued over 31 crore e-Shram cards, making it one of the world’s largest databases of workers in the informal sector.
Moreover, registered workers receive a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN), which helps them access government benefits and employment-related services.
Who is Eligible for E-Shram Card?
To register for an e-Shram Card, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Age should be between 16 and 59 years.
- Should be working in the unorganized sector.
- Must possess an Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Should not be a member of EPFO, ESIC, or NPS.
- Income taxpayers are generally not eligible.
Therefore, workers such as street vendors, construction workers, domestic workers, migrant laborers, agricultural workers, and gig workers can benefit from the scheme.
Benefits of E-Shram Card 2026
Registered workers can avail several benefits, including:
- 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN).
- Access to social security and welfare schemes.
- Integration with Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM).
- Monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60 under PM-SYM (subject to enrollment).
- Accidental death insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh.
- Financial assistance of ₹1 lakh in case of partial disability.
- Better access to employment opportunities and skill development programmes.
As a result, the scheme provides financial security and support to millions of workers across India.
Documents Required
Before starting registration, keep the following documents ready:
- Aadhaar Card
- Aadhaar-linked mobile number
- Savings bank account details
- IFSC code of the bank
- Occupation details
Additionally, applicants can visit Common Service Centres (CSCs) if they need assistance with registration.
How to Register Online for E-Shram Card?
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official e-Shram portal.
- Click on “Register on e-Shram.”
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Complete OTP verification.
- Fill in personal and occupational details.
- Enter bank account information.
- Submit the application.
- Download the e-Shram Card containing the UAN number.
Consequently, the entire process can be completed online without any registration fee.
How to Download E-Shram Card?
Registered workers can:
- Log in to the e-Shram portal.
- Verify using OTP.
- Click on “Download UAN Card.”
- Save or print the card for future use.
Furthermore, the e-Shram mobile app and UMANG platform also support several services related to the scheme.
Conclusion
The E-Shram Card 2026 continues to play a vital role in extending social security benefits to workers in the unorganized sector. With free registration, insurance coverage, pension opportunities, and easier access to government schemes, the initiative aims to improve the livelihood and financial stability of millions of workers across the country.
