- Lots of benefits if you register your name in the portal
One need not mention the turmoils of workers due to the chaos created by the Covid-19 pandemic. Workers who migrated to other towns and States for livelihood, faced numerous hardships during the lockdown and thereafter. We have witnessed many tragic incidents where people have to walk hundreds of kilometers on foot due to lack of food and work. In this context, the Central government has come up with a new scheme to ensure that such situations do not recur, especially to the unorganised sector workers. It came up with a website ‘e-Shram’ and developed a database of workers from the unorganised sector at the national level. Workers are advised to register their names on this site without fail.
What are the benefits?
An e-Shram card will be issued to those who register on the portal. This card is accepted anywhere in India and enables the cardholder to avail various social security schemes offered by the Central government. An accidental death insurance is also provided for one year under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Yojana where Rs 2 lakh will be paid for accidental death or permanent disability and Rs 1 lakh for partial disability. This card is useful in catastrophic situations such as disasters or epidemics as well.
Who is eligible?
Those aged between 16 and 59 years of age, are eligible to join the scheme. Only those who do not fall under Income Tax limits, do not have PF or ESI and are working in unorganised sector, are eligible. They can register themselves by providing details like Aadhaar number, mobile number and bank details.
Who are the unorganised sector workers ?
Workers in agriculture and allied sectors: small and marginal farmers, farm laborers, horticulturists, nurseries, dairy industry, fishermen.
Workers in building construction and allied sectors: masonry, excavation, stonework, centring, rod bending, plumbing, sanitary, painting, tiles, electrician, welding, brick, limestone, riggers, concrete mixer, excavators or desiltation workers.
Apparel: tailoring, embroidery, dress makers.
Automobile and transport sector: drivers, helpers.
Craftsmen: weavers, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, barbers, beauticians, washermen, tanners.
Self-employed: street vendors, cart vendors, home-made goods, small traders, masons, artisans, rickshaw pullers, beedi workers, garbage pickers.
Service workers: maids, courier boys, patients caretakers, delivery boys.
Government Scheme implementers: NREGA workers, ASHA workers, Self Help Groups, Anganwadi, Mid-day meals workers, Village or Ward Volunteers.
Hamalis: Loading and unloading.
Staff working in shops and companies without PF or ESI as well as bakery, dairy products, fast food manufacturers and migrant workers.
