In a significant step toward enhancing social security coverage for gig and platform workers, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched an initiative to encourage platform aggregators to register their gig workers on the e-Shram portal.
This move is crucial for ensuring workers’ access to welfare schemes while also facilitating the creation of a comprehensive database of beneficiaries.
e-Shram Portal for Gig Workers: Background & Key Highlights
The gig economy in India has witnessed rapid growth, with millions of workers engaged in various platform-based jobs such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance work.
However, until now, many of these workers lacked formal social security benefits. The e-Shram Portal seeks to bridge this gap by providing a centralized platform for registration and support for unorganized workers.
The e-Shram portal serves as a digital gateway for gig and platform workers to access social security benefits.
It captures essential details of workers, including their name, permanent address, current address, occupation, educational qualification, and skill type.
Platform aggregators play a pivotal role in this initiative. They are encouraged to register themselves and their workers on the e-Shram Portal.
By doing so, aggregators contribute to the accurate identification and inclusion of workers in social welfare schemes.
Upon successful registration, platform workers receive a Universal Account Number (UAN). The UAN acts as a unique identifier and allows workers to access key social security benefits.
These benefits may include health insurance, pension schemes, and financial assistance during emergencies.
What are the Aggregator’s Responsibilities?
The Ministry has issued guidelines and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for aggregators. Aggregators are responsible for registering workers and maintaining up-to-date data.
Regular updates regarding work engagement, payments, and any worker exits are essential for accurate records.
To facilitate the registration process, a toll-free helpline (14434) has been set up. Workers and aggregators can seek information, guidance, and technical assistance through this helpline.
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