Introduction
The E-Shram Labour Card is an initiative by the Government of India to create a national database of unorganized workers. Launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, this scheme aims to provide social security benefits and welfare schemes to workers in the unorganized sector. The E-Shram portal helps the government track and support these workers through direct benefits.

What is the E-Shram Labour Card?
The E-Shram Card is a 12-digit Unique Identification Number (UAN) issued to unorganized sector workers after registration on the E-Shram portal. It is linked to Aadhaar and contains the worker’s personal, occupational, and bank details. The card helps in availing various government schemes and benefits.
Objectives of the E-Shram Card
- Create a National Database: To maintain records of unorganized workers for better policy formulation.
- Provide Social Security: To offer insurance, pension, and other welfare benefits to workers.
- Reduce Workplace Vulnerabilities: To ensure workers receive support in case of job loss, illness, or financial crisis.
- Promote Financial Inclusion: To encourage savings and financial planning for unorganized workers.
Who Can Apply for the E-Shram Card?
The scheme is meant for unorganized sector workers who meet the following eligibility criteria:
✅ Age: 16 to 59 years
✅ Employment Type: Must be an unorganized worker (not in EPFO/ESIC or government jobs)
✅ Nationality: Indian
✅ Income: No fixed income criteria, but applicable to low-income workers
Examples of Eligible Workers
- Agricultural workers
- Construction laborers
- Street vendors
- Domestic workers
- Gig workers (e.g., delivery personnel)
- Fishermen
- MGNREGA workers
- ASHA and Anganwadi workers
Documents Required for E-Shram Card Registration
To apply for an E-Shram card, you need:
✔ Aadhaar Card (Mandatory for UAN generation)
✔ Mobile Number (Linked with Aadhaar)
✔ Bank Account Details
✔ Domicile Certificate (In some cases)
How to Apply for an E-Shram Card?
You can register for an E-Shram Card online or offline:
Online Registration (Self-Registration)
- Visit the official E-Shram portal: https://eshram.gov.in
- Click on “Register on E-Shram”
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and OTP verification
- Fill in your personal details, including occupation and address
- Upload the necessary documents
- Submit and receive your UAN (Universal Account Number)
- Download and print your E-Shram Card
Offline Registration
Workers can also apply through:
- Common Service Centers (CSCs)
- State Labour Offices
- District Administration Offices
Benefits of E-Shram Card
The E-Shram Card offers several advantages to workers:
1. Accidental Insurance (₹2 Lakh)
Workers are covered under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY):
- ₹2 lakh compensation for accidental death or permanent disability
- ₹1 lakh compensation for partial disability
2. Priority in Government Schemes
- Pension benefits (Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana)
- Health insurance schemes (Ayushman Bharat Yojana)
- Employment opportunities in the organized sector
3. Financial Assistance
- Direct cash transfers from government schemes
- Benefits during pandemics, disasters, or economic crises
4. Maternity & Disability Support
- Maternity benefits for women workers
- Disability benefits in case of workplace injuries
5. Skill Development & Employment Support
- Free training programs for unorganized workers
- Job opportunities through government initiatives
E-Shram Card Balance Check & Download
Workers can check their E-Shram card status and balance via:
- Official Portal: https://eshram.gov.in
- UMANG App
- Common Service Centers (CSCs)
- Bank Account Linked to E-Shram
To download the E-Shram card:
- Visit the official portal
- Log in with Aadhaar number
- Click on “Download UAN Card”
Common FAQs About the E-Shram Card
1. Is there any fee for E-Shram registration?
👉 No, registration is completely free.
2. Can I apply for the E-Shram card if I have an EPFO account?
👉 No, workers covered under EPFO/ESIC are not eligible.
3. How long is the E-Shram card valid?
👉 The card is valid for a lifetime, but details should be updated every year.
4. How will I receive the benefits?
👉 Benefits are transferred directly to your bank account linked with Aadhaar.
5. What if I lose my E-Shram card?
👉 You can re-download it from the official website.
Conclusion
The E-Shram Labour Card is a significant step toward the welfare of unorganized sector workers in India. It ensures social security, insurance, and financial aid to workers who are often overlooked. Registration is free and easy, and the benefits make it a must-have for eligible workers.
If you or someone you know works in the unorganized sector, applying for an E-Shram card can provide long-term security and benefits.