Discover the meaning of the Eshram card: See how workers in the unorganized sector are empowered by this digital ID.
The Indian government introduced the “Eshram” card, often referred to as the “e-Shram” card, which is a digital identity card. Its purpose is to give workers in the unorganized sector a formal, acknowledged identity. The word “eshram” comes from the Hindi words “e” (electronic) and “shram” (labor or work), emphasizing its intention to digitally record and recognize the labor contributions of those employed in the unorganized sector. The Eshram card provides social security and welfare benefits to workers in the unorganized sector, which includes daily wage workers, construction workers, domestic helpers, street sellers, and more. Its goal is to integrate them into the structured and controlled labor market.
Benefits of the Eshram card include
Formal Identification
The card provides workers with a formal identification, which can be crucial for accessing various government schemes and benefits.
Social Security
Eshram cardholders can potentially access social security measures like healthcare, insurance, and pension schemes.
Financial Inclusion
It can enable workers to open bank accounts and access financial services, promoting financial inclusion and savings.
Access to Government Schemes
The card makes workers eligible for government welfare programs tailored for the unorganized sector.
Skill Development
It can serve as a basis for identifying skill gaps and providing relevant training to enhance employability.
Labor Rights
The card can help enforce labor rights, ensuring fair wages, better working conditions, and protection from exploitation.
Improved Working Conditions
By formalizing the sector, the card may encourage employers to provide safer working environments and adhere to labor regulations.
Record of Employment
The card can digitally record a worker’s employment history, making it easier to verify work experience.
Ease of Access
Being a digital card, it’s easy to access and carry, reducing the risk of loss compared to physical documents.
Transparent System
The Eshram card system promotes transparency by digitally recording worker data and transactions.
The Eshram card strives to uplift the lives of unorganized sector workers by integrating them into the formal economy, facilitating access to social welfare, and enhancing their overall well-being. It’s like providing a gateway for workers to access the benefits and rights they deserve, improving their quality of life and contributing to a more equitable society.
