Every morning, like clockwork, the milkman makes his rounds, delivering fresh milk straight to our doorstep, the maid keeps things tidy, and the gardener tends to ensure that our garden looks vibrant. Later on, the cook prepares delicious meals and when hunger strikes our stomachs, Swiggy or Zomato delivers our favorite dishes.
Our daily routine relies on hardworking individuals who play an important role, they’re the ones who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our needs are met and our lives run smoothly.
Despite their invaluable contributions, many of these individuals work without the benefits and protections that employees in larger companies and established industries may take for granted. Yes, we are talking about benefits such as provident fund, employee state insurance, gratuity, or bonuses.
The sad reality is that these hardworking individuals are left without the protections they deserve.
Recognizing this gap, the Indian government launched the E-Shram Initiative – a step towards providing much-needed protection for these workers. In September 2021, the government introduced the e-Shram card as part of this initiative.
In this blog, we will deep dive into the recently introduced E-Shram Initiative by the Indian government, we will cover important aspects such as what exactly the E-Shram card entails, its benefits for workers, the process for application and the necessary documents required during the application process. Additionally, we’ll walk you through how to check your card status and seamlessly download the E-Shram card.
What is the E-Shram Card
E-Shram card is a government scheme designed to improve the well being of individuals, especially those in the unorganized sector by providing them with various benefits and protections particularly in times of retirement or unexpected events.
Through the E-Shram portal workers can apply for the card and access a range of government programs and services. This initiative helps the government to create a database of workers in both the government and organized sectors.
It provides direct benefits during crises like the pandemic. If a worker falls between the ages of 16 and 59, does not file income tax returns and works in an unorganized sector listed by the government (including agriculture, construction, small businesses, etc.), they can qualify for the card. E-Shram card ensures that these workers receive the support they need directly into their bank accounts when they need it most.
E-Shram Card Benefits
Are you aware of the various benefits that workers and laborers in certain sectors can receive through an E-Shram card? Through this initiative, individuals can access financial aid in case of disability, death insurance and a pension upon reaching the age of 60.
Let’s take a closer look at the E-Shram card benefits :
- Pension: Workers aged 60 and above are entitled to a monthly pension of Rs. 3000. This serves as a form of financial security during their retirement years.
- Financial Assistance for Disability: In the unfortunate event of partial disability, workers can receive financial assistance of up to Rs. 1 lakh. This aid can help cover medical expenses and provide support during times of need.
- Death Insurance: If a worker passes away, their family can receive support of up to Rs. 200,000. This assistance aims to alleviate financial burdens during such difficult circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria for E-Shram Card:
Are you curious about who qualifies for the E-Shram program and how to become eligible for its valuable benefits?
- Age Bracket: Applicants must be between the ages of 16 to 59 years to be eligible for the program. This ensures that individuals of working age can access the benefits offered.
- Sector: Eligibility is extended to individuals engaged in the unorganized sector or categorized as unorganized workers. This includes a wide range of occupations, such as construction workers, street vendors, domestic helpers, and more.
- Mobile Number and Aadhaar Card: Applicants must have a functioning mobile number linked to their Aadhaar card. This ensures smooth communication and verification processes.
Once enrolled, each recipient is assigned a unique 12-digit UAN (Universal Account Number) that is valid throughout India. This facilitates seamless access to benefits and services under the E-Shram program.
How to Apply for an e-Shram Card
So, when it comes to applying for an e-Shram card, you’ve got two options.
- Firstly, you can hop onto the E-Shram portal online. It’s pretty straightforward.
- Or, if you prefer the old-school way, you can go to your nearest CSC (Common Service Center) and get it done there. Guidance will be available throughout the entire process.
For those who prefer the online method, the first step involves navigating to https://eshram.gov.in/ the official website of E-Shram.
Once you’re on the homepage, locate and click on the ‘Register’ option. This will open a self-registration screen where you’ll be prompted to enter your mobile number linked with Aadhar. If you already have a UAN for PF or ESIC registration, select “Yes”; otherwise, select “No”. After that, click on “Send OTP” and insert the OTP you receive. Complete the process by clicking on the “Submit” option.
Follow below steps to complete the process.
- Then, add your Aadhar number and tick the box agreeing to the terms and conditions and click "Submit."
- Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhar-linked mobile number and click "Validate."
- Review the information retrieved from your Aadhar card, including your name, date of birth, gender, locality, state, pincode, and country. Agree to this information and proceed to "Continue To Enter Other Details."
- Provide your registered and emergency mobile numbers (optional), and your email address (also optional).
- Select your marital status and enter your father's name (mandatory).
- Choose your social category (SC/ST/OBC/GENERAL) and indicate your blood group.
- If the card is for a physically disabled person, select "Yes" and provide nominee details including name, date of birth, gender, and relationship.
- Save the nominee details and move on to address details, including your native state, house number, locality, state, district, sub-district, and pincode. Specify if you currently reside at this address and for how long.
- If your current address differs, provide those details as well.
- Enter your educational qualifications and attach certificates if available. Indicate your monthly income slab.
- Provide details about your occupation, including any skills or training received. If your occupation is not listed, register under "Others."
- Add bank details including account number, account holder's name, and IFSC code. Verify the IFSC code and save.
- Review all details provided and click "Submit" if correct.
- Confirm that you are not a member of PF/ESI and are not an income tax payer.
- Print or download your e-Shram card and complete registration.
How to Check the Status of Your e-Shram Card Application:
Once you’ve successfully registered, follow the steps below to check the status of your e-Shram card application:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to https://eshram.gov.in/, the official website of e-Shram.
- Navigate to the Status Check Section: On the main page, look for the "E-Aadhaar Card Beneficiary Status Check" link and click on it.
- Provide Your Information: Enter either your Universal Account Number (UAN) or e-Shram card number into the provided field. Then, click the submit button.
- View Your Status: Your e-Shram card payment status will now be displayed on the screen.
How to Download Your e-Shram Card:
Once your registration and application processes are complete, you can download your e-Shram card by following these steps:
- Go to the Official Website: Visit the official e-Shram website.
- Access the home page and opt for the "Previously Registered" choice.
- Access the Download Link: Look for and click on the "Update Download UAN Card" link.
- Enter Your Details: Input your UAN number, date of birth, and the captcha code provided.
- Generate OTP: Click on the "Generate OTP" button. The OTP will be transmitted to the number you have registered.
- Verify Your OTP: Enter the OTP received and select "Validate." Ensure the displayed personal information is correct.
- Confirm and Submit: Choose the "Preview" option to confirm the provided information. Then, press submit.
- Verify OTP Again: Another OTP will be sent to your mobile. Enter it and select "Verify."
- Download Your Card: Your e-Shram card will now be generated and displayed on the screen. Select download option to save it to your device.
Final Words
E-Shram Initiative is a step towards providing essential protections and benefits for the hardworking individuals who form the backbone of our daily lives. From the milkman to the maid and the gardener to the cook, these unsung heroes often work without the security and benefits that many of us take for granted. E-Shram card offers a ray of hope providing access to pensions, disability assistance, and death insurance for workers in the unorganized sector. By simplifying the application process and offering online options, the government aims to reach as many eligible individuals as possible. So, if you or someone you know qualifies for the E-Shram program, don’t hesitate to apply and secure the benefits that you rightfully deserve. Let’s ensure that those who work tirelessly behind the scenes receive the support and recognition they deserve.
