Registration of Gig and Platform Workers on the e-Shram Portal
The gig economy in Odisha is growing rapidly, with many individuals working as delivery executives, ride-share drivers, and freelance service providers through platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Uber, Ola, and Amazon. These gig and platform workers often lack formal benefits, making social security a pressing need. The e-Shram portal, launched by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, addresses this gap by providing access to welfare schemes for unorganised workers. The Second Special Registration Campaign, active until June 1, 2025, encourages gig workers in Odisha to register.
What is the e-Shram Portal?
The e-Shram portal, introduced on August 26, 2021, is India’s first national database for unorganised workers, including gig and platform workers. As of January 2025, over 30.58 crore workers have registered nationwide, with Odisha making significant contributions. The portal, accessible at https://eshram.gov.in/, uses Aadhaar to create a Universal Account Number (UAN) for each worker, linking them to social security schemes. It captures details such as occupation, skills, and contact information to ensure benefits reach those in need.
Why is e-Shram Registration Important for Gig and Platform Workers?
In Odisha, where the gig economy is expanding in urban centers like Bhubaneswar, e-Shram registration provides formal recognition to workers who often lack employer-provided benefits. It ensures access to health insurance, skill development, and other welfare schemes, offering financial stability. The Second Special Registration Campaign, launched by the Labour Commissioner of Odisha, emphasizes enrolling gig workers to build a secure workforce.
Who is Considered a Gig or Platform Worker Under e-Shram?
Gig and platform workers are individuals engaged in flexible, task-based jobs through digital platforms. In Odisha, this includes delivery executives for Swiggy, Zomato, or Amazon, ride-share drivers for Uber or Ola, and service providers on platforms like Urban Company. The Labour Commissioner’s poster lists roles such as drivers, delivery personnel, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters as eligible workers, reflecting the diverse gig workforce in the state.
Who is Eligible to Register as a Gig or Platform Worker on e-Shram?
To register, workers must be aged 16–59, employed in the unorganised sector, and not enrolled in EPFO, ESIC, or government-funded NPS schemes. An Aadhaar-linked mobile number is mandatory. In Odisha, this includes delivery workers, drivers, and freelance professionals.
Registration on the e-Shram portal is not mandatory for freelance workers, but it is highly recommended. Freelancers in Odisha, such as electricians or carpenters working through platforms, can benefit from social security schemes by enrolling voluntarily, ensuring long-term financial protection.
How to Register on the e-Shram Portal for the First Time? A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Visit the official website at https://eshram.gov.in/ or scan the QR code provided in the Labour Commissioner’s poster.
- Step 2: Click on “Self-Registration” and enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Step 3: Verify your number with the OTP received.
- Step 4: Provide your Aadhaar details, personal information, occupation, and skills.
- Step 5: Submit the form to generate your e-Shram card with a UAN.
What Documents Are Needed to Register on e-Shram?
To register, you need an Aadhaar card, an Aadhaar-linked mobile number, and bank account details. The Labour Commissioner’s poster emphasizes having a ration card, Aadhaar card, and bank passbook ready to complete the process smoothly.
How to Register for e-Shram at Mo Seva Kendra or CSC in Odisha?
Odisha residents can visit Mo Seva Kendras or Common Service Centres (CSCs) for assistance. The Labour Commissioner’s poster suggests carrying your Aadhaar card, mobile number, and bank passbook. Staff at these centers will help with form submission and verification. For support, contact the helpline at 14434 or 1800-223-222, as mentioned in the poster.
Benefits of e-Shram for Odisha’s Unorganised Workers
What Are the Benefits of e-Shram for Unorganised Sector Workers?
Registration on the e-Shram portal provides Odisha’s gig workers with access to multiple benefits, including ₹5 lakh health coverage under PMJAY, skill training through Skill India, and job opportunities via the National Career Service (NCS) portal. It also integrates with state-specific welfare schemes, ensuring comprehensive support.
What Social Security Schemes Are Linked to e-Shram?
The portal links to schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) for health insurance, Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM) for pensions, and housing initiatives. In Odisha, workers can also access local welfare programs through integration with the Odisha Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board.
Can Gig Workers Get Accidental Insurance Under e-Shram?
Yes, gig workers registered on e-Shram are eligible for ₹2 lakh accidental insurance coverage. This benefit provides financial support in case of accidents, a crucial safety net for Odisha’s delivery executives and drivers who face on-road risks daily.
