The e Shram Card Yojana 2026 is a major social security initiative launched for unorganized sector workers across India. As of January 2026, registered workers receive a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) that remains valid for life. The scheme is managed by the Ministry of Labour and Employment and aims to cover millions of workers aged 16 to 59 years by linking them to insurance, pension, and welfare benefits through a centralized digital database.
The e Shram Card acts as a single identity for workers such as construction labourers, street vendors, domestic workers, gig workers, and daily wage earners. Through this system, the government can provide direct benefits, accident insurance, and future scheme coverage efficiently. Registration is free and can be completed online or with assisted support using Aadhaar and bank details.
What Is e Shram Card Yojana
The e Shram Card Yojana is a national database system created to register unorganized workers and provide them with a unique identity number. This identity helps the government track employment data and extend social security benefits to workers who are not covered under formal schemes. The scheme ensures that workers remain connected to welfare programs even if they change jobs or migrate to another state.
The primary objective of the e Shram Card scheme is to create a comprehensive database of unorganized workers. This helps in policy planning, emergency support distribution, and long-term welfare coverage. It also aims to ensure financial inclusion and protection for workers who previously had limited access to government benefits.
Key Features of e Shram Card Yojana 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | e Shram Card Yojana |
| Year | 2026 |
| Issuing Authority | Ministry of Labour and Employment |
| Beneficiaries | Unorganized sector workers |
| UAN | 12-digit unique number |
| Age Limit | 16 to 59 years |
| Registration Cost | Free |
| Validity | Lifetime |
| Coverage Type | Insurance and welfare |
| Mode | Online and assisted |
Eligibility Criteria for e Shram Card
To apply for the e Shram Card Yojana 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be an unorganized sector worker
- Age should be between 16 and 59 years
Workers already enrolled in EPFO or ESIC schemes are not eligible. Aadhaar-linked mobile number is mandatory for verification.
Documents Required for e Shram Card Registration
Applicants should keep the following documents ready before registration:
- Aadhaar card with linked mobile number
- Bank account details for benefit transfer
Correct and updated information helps avoid delays and ensures smooth benefit delivery.
Benefits of e Shram Card Yojana
The e Shram Card provides multiple long-term and short-term benefits to registered workers:
- Accident insurance coverage in case of death or disability
- Eligibility for pension and future welfare schemes
Additionally, registered workers may receive direct benefit transfers during emergencies or special government initiatives.
How e Shram Card Helps Unorganized Workers
The e Shram Card improves access to social security by creating a permanent worker identity. It enables portability of benefits across states and occupations, especially for migrant workers.
The centralized database also allows faster support during natural disasters or economic disruptions.
Common Issues and Solutions
Some workers face problems such as Aadhaar mismatch or bank verification delays. These issues can usually be resolved by updating details or seeking assisted registration support.
Keeping contact details updated is essential to continue receiving scheme benefits.
FAQs
Q1. Is e Shram Card registration free?
Yes, registration under the e Shram Card Yojana is completely free.
Q2. Can migrant workers apply for e Shram Card?
Yes, migrant workers are eligible and benefits remain valid across states.
Q3. Does e Shram Card expire?
No, the e Shram Card and UAN are valid for life.
Conclusion
The e Shram Card Yojana 2026 is a crucial step toward providing financial security and social protection to India’s unorganized workforce. By offering a lifelong digital identity, insurance coverage, and access to welfare schemes, the initiative strengthens inclusion and support for millions of workers. Eligible individuals should ensure timely registration and keep their details updated to fully benefit from this scheme.