The e-Shram portal is a flagship initiative launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on August 26, 2021. It serves as the first-ever comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW). The portal is designed to provide a centralized, Aadhaar-seeded identity to workers in the unorganized sector, facilitating the seamless delivery of welfare schemes and social security benefits.
Core Objectives
- Centralized Database: To create a nationwide registry of unorganized workers, including construction, migrant, gig, platform, domestic, and agricultural workers.
- Targeted Delivery: To improve the efficiency and reach of social security and welfare services by utilizing a unified data platform.
- Portability: To ensure that migrant and construction workers can access their benefits regardless of their geographical location.
- Crisis Management: To provide a reliable database that the government can leverage to provide immediate support during national crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Job Matching: To connect workers with employment and skill development opportunities via linkages with portals like the National Career Service (NCS) and Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH).
Key Features and Technical Framework
- Universal Account Number (UAN): Every registered worker is issued a unique 12-digit UAN, which remains permanent and portable across the country.
- One-Stop-Solution: Launched on October 21, 2024, this enhancement integrates various social security and welfare schemes of different Central Ministries and Departments into the e-Shram portal, allowing beneficiaries to track the benefits they have availed.
- Platform Aggregator Module: Operational since December 2024, this module allows platform aggregators (e.g., Zomato, Uber, Swiggy, Urban Company) to onboard gig and platform workers, ensuring their formal recognition and access to social security.
- State-Specific Microsites: Launched in January 2025, these microsites empower States/UTs to address unique local challenges and tailor services to their specific demographics.
- Accessibility: Available via the web portal, the e-Shram mobile application (launched February 2025), UMANG platform, Common Service Centres (CSCs), and State Seva Kendras (SSKs).
Eligibility Criteria
To register on the e-Shram portal, an individual must meet the following conditions:
- Must be an unorganized worker (e.g., self-employed, wage worker, home-based worker).
- Age should be between 16 and 59 years.
- Must not be a member of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), or a government-funded National Pension System (NPS) subscriber.
- Must possess an Aadhaar number, an Aadhaar-linked mobile number, and a bank account.
Integration with Other Schemes
The e-Shram portal serves as a conduit for various social security and welfare programs. Notable integrations include:
- Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM): A voluntary and contributory pension scheme for old-age protection.
- Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY): Provides accidental death and disability insurance cover.
- PMSVANidhi: Targeted at street vendors for working capital loans.
- National Career Service (NCS): Provides job opportunities and career counseling.
- Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH): Offers skill development and training programs.
Important Statistics and Trivia
| Aspect | Details |
| Launch Date | August 26, 2021 |
| Total Registrations | Over 31.67 crore (as of mid-2026) |
| Helpline Number | 14434 |
| NCO | The portal uses the National Classification of Occupation (NCO) to categorize worker skills |
| Document Required | Aadhaar, Aadhaar-linked Mobile Number, Bank Account |