Recently, a widespread claim has been circulating on social media and various platforms suggesting that E-Shram cardholders will receive a monthly assistance of Rs. 5000. However, it is essential to clarify that the Ministry of Labour and Employment has not announced any such scheme. There is no permanent arrangement by the central government to provide Rs. 5000 every month to workers in the unorganized sector.
The Misunderstanding Behind the Rs. 5000 Claim
The confusion about Rs. 5000 being provided to E-Shram cardholders arises from two key situations. First, some state governments, during times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic or natural disasters, provide one-time financial assistance to registered workers. This assistance can range from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000, but it is not a regular or monthly benefit. Secondly, in states like Uttar Pradesh, workers were given sustenance allowances during the lockdown, which led people to incorrectly assume that this was a regular monthly payment.
The Real Benefits of the E-Shram Card
Although the claim of a monthly Rs. 5000 is false, the E-Shram card offers several significant benefits that workers should be aware of. The most important and valuable benefit is the accident insurance coverage of Rs. 2 lakh. Under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, if a cardholder dies in an accident or suffers permanent disability, their family is entitled to Rs. 2 lakh as financial assistance. In cases of partial disability, Rs. 1 lakh is provided.
Another important advantage is the provision for security in old age. Through the E-Shram card, workers can join the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana. Under this scheme, workers receive a monthly pension of Rs. 3,000 after the age of 60. To avail of this, workers aged between 18 and 40 need to contribute a nominal monthly amount ranging from Rs. 55 to Rs. 200.
Priority Access to Government Schemes and Direct Benefits
E-Shram cardholders are given priority in all future government schemes. Whether it is a housing scheme or any other welfare program, registered workers will be the first to receive benefits. Additionally, during any national crisis or disaster, the government directly transfers financial assistance into the bank accounts of registered workers based on the E-Shram database.
Eligibility and Registration Process
The process of registering for an E-Shram card is completely free. To be eligible, an applicant must be between 16 and 59 years old and should be a worker in the unorganized sector. This includes daily wage workers, farmers, domestic workers, drivers, tailors, carpenters, and others. Applicants should not be employed in government jobs, nor should they be income taxpayers.
To register for the E-Shram card, applicants need to have their Aadhaar card, bank passbook, and mobile number linked to Aadhaar. Registration can be completed online at the official website, eshram.gov.in, or by visiting the nearest Jan Seva Kendra for assistance. Once the registration is complete, the E-Shram card is issued immediately and can be downloaded.
It is important not to believe in any rumors or misleading claims. The E-Shram card does not provide a monthly Rs. 5000, but it is a crucial document that offers social security and financial support to workers in the unorganized sector. Every worker in this sector should ensure their registration under the E-Shram scheme.
By registering for the E-Shram card, workers can secure access to various benefits, including accident insurance, old age pension, and priority access to future government welfare schemes. It is essential to stay informed and rely on official channels for information.
