As of 2024, the Government of India has intensified its efforts to support unorganised workers through the eShram-One Stop Solution portal. This initiative has integrated 12 different welfare schemes from various ministries, aiming to streamline access to social security and benefits. The government is actively encouraging states and union territories to incorporate their local schemes into the eShram platform, thereby expanding its reach and efficacy.
What is eShram?
The eShram portal is a digital initiative launched in August 2021, aimed at creating a comprehensive database of unorganised workers in India. It provides a Universal Account Number (UAN) to each registered worker, which facilitates access to various welfare schemes. The portal is designed to serve as a single-window solution, making it easier for workers to obtain information and benefits with minimal hassle.
Importance of Unorganised Workers
Unorganised workers constitute an important portion of India’s workforce, with estimates suggesting that around 43.99 crore workers are employed in this sector. This demographic often lacks access to essential social security measures, making initiatives like eShram crucial for their welfare. The portal not only aids in providing financial assistance but also empowers workers by enhancing their awareness of available resources.
Features of the eShram Portal
The eShram portal is notable for its user-friendly interface, which includes services available in multiple regional languages. This feature is particularly important in a diverse country like India, where linguistic barriers can hinder access to information. The government is also conducting outreach programmes to educate unorganised workers about the portal and its benefits, ensuring that the initiative reaches its target audience effectively.
Impact of eShram
Since its inception, the eShram portal has registered over 30 crore unorganised workers, denoting its popularity and the pressing need for such a platform. The initiative puts stress on the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by unorganised labourers, who often work in precarious conditions without adequate safety nets. The portal serves as a mediator, connecting workers to the schemes designed specifically for their needs.
Gender Disparities in Registration
Data from the Ministry of Labour and Employment reveals that among the registered workers, there is a notable gender disparity. As of March 31, the portal recorded approximately 15.68 crore female workers, compared to about 13.84 crore male workers. This disparity marks the need for targeted policies to ensure that women in the unorganised sector receive equitable access to benefits and support.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the eShram portal in the context of unorganised labour in India.
- What measures can be taken to enhance the effectiveness of the eShram portal?
- Analyse the gender disparities in the registration of unorganised workers on the eShram portal.
- Examine the role of technology in improving access to welfare schemes for unorganised workers.
- Evaluate the impact of the eShram initiative on the socio-economic conditions of unorganised workers.
