The PM e-Shram Yojana is a landmark initiative of the Government of India aimed at creating a national database of unorganised sector workers and providing them access to social security schemes, insurance benefits, and welfare support. Launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the scheme plays a crucial role in improving financial inclusion and worker protection across India.

As of recent updates, crores of workers have already been registered under the e-Shram portal, making it the world’s largest database of informal workers.

What Is PM e-Shram Yojana?

The e-Shram Yojana is a national registration platform for workers in the unorganised sector, such as daily wage labourers, construction workers, street vendors, domestic workers, agricultural labourers, gig workers, and self-employed individuals.

Under this scheme, registered workers are issued an e-Shram Card (UAN – Universal Account Number), which helps them access government welfare benefits and social security schemes.

Key Highlights

Objectives of PM e-Shram Yojana

The primary objectives of the scheme are:

• To create a centralised database of unorganised workers

• To extend social security coverage

• To enable direct benefit transfer (DBT) of welfare schemes

• To provide financial and insurance support

• To help workers during emergencies, pandemics, and natural disasters

This database helps the government design targeted welfare policies.

Who Can Register? (Eligibility Criteria)

To register under the PM e-Shram Yojana, the applicant must fulfil the following conditions:

Eligibility Conditions

Examples of Eligible Workers

• Construction workers

• Agricultural labourers

• Street vendors

• Domestic workers

• Rickshaw pullers

• Gig & platform workers

• Small traders and self-employed persons

Benefits of PM e-Shram Yojana

Registered workers receive multiple benefits, both direct and indirect.

Major Benefits

• ₹2 lakh accidental insurance cover

• ₹1 lakh insurance cover in case of partial disability

• Access to government welfare schemes

• Priority inclusion in future labour welfare programs

• Nationwide valid UAN card

• Financial assistance during emergencies (subject to policy decisions)

Insurance Coverage Under e-Shram Yojana

The insurance benefit is provided under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY).

The insurance premium is fully paid by the Government.

What Is an e-Shram Card?

The e-Shram Card is a digital identity card issued to registered workers.

Features of e-Shram Card

• Contains 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN)

• Valid across all Indian states

• Linked with Aadhaar

• Helps track eligibility for welfare schemes

• Can be downloaded and printed anytime

How to Register for PM e-Shram Yojana

Registration is free of cost and can be done online or offline.

Online Registration Process

1. Visit the official e-Shram portal

2. Enter Aadhaar-linked mobile number

3. Verify OTP

4. Fill personal, address, and occupation details

5. Submit bank account information

6. Generate e-Shram Card (UAN)

Offline Registration

• Visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC)

• Provide Aadhaar and mobile number

• CSC operator completes registration

Documents Required for Registration

Applicants need the following documents:

• Aadhaar Card

• Aadhaar-linked mobile number

• Bank account details

• Address details

• Occupation details

Coverage and Real Statistics

PM e-Shram Yojana has achieved massive reach since its launch.

Key Statistics (Approx.)

These figures highlight the scheme’s importance in the informal economy.

Latest Updates on PM e-Shram Yojana (2025–2026)

Recent Developments

• Integration with National Career Service (NCS) portal

• Linking e-Shram data with skill development schemes

• States providing additional benefits using e-Shram data

• Expansion of coverage for gig and platform workers

• e-Shram card used as eligibility proof for state welfare schemes

The government is also working on linking the portal with pension and health insurance programs.

Difference Between PM e-Shram and PM Shram Yogi Mandhan

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is e-Shram registration mandatory?

No, it is voluntary, but highly beneficial.

Is there any registration fee?

No, registration is completely free.

Can a small trader register?

Yes, if not covered under EPFO/ESIC and not paying income tax.

Is the insurance lifetime?

Insurance coverage is valid as per PMSBY norms and government notifications.

Can details be updated later?

Yes, workers can update details on the portal.

Conclusion

The PM e-Shram Yojana is a transformative initiative for India’s unorganised workforce. By providing a universal identity, insurance protection, and access to welfare schemes, it strengthens social security for crores of workers who were previously outside formal systems.

With ongoing integration across labour, skill, and welfare platforms, e-Shram is expected to play a key role in shaping India’s inclusive growth and worker-centric policies.