When the Government of India launched the e-Shram portal in 2021, it was called a big step forward for workers like delivery agents, drivers, construction laborers, and others in the unorganized sector. The goal was to register 280 million workers in a national database to give them social security benefits, health insurance, and future pensions.
But years later, is e-Shram really helping gig workers? Let’s look at what’s working, what’s not, and how it affects people like you.
What is the e-Shram Portal?
The e-Shram portal is a government website where workers in the unorganized sector—including gig workers—can register for free. Once registered, you get a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) that links you to benefits such as:
Accident insurance up to ₹2 lakh under PMSBY
Health and maternity benefits
Possible access to pension and housing schemes in the future
Companies like Marketplace Company are helping gig workers with easy onboarding so they can register faster and start receiving benefits.
Why e-Shram Matters for Gig Workers
India’s gig economy employs over 12 million workers in jobs like delivery, ride-hailing, and logistics. But most of these workers don’t have:
Health or accident insurance
Retirement or pension plans
Formal recognition as part of the workforce
The e-Shram portal is one of the first major steps to change this. It’s designed to give gig workers like you more security and a safety net for the future.
What’s Working So Far?
1. Big Registration Numbers
As of 2025, over 280 million workers have registered on e-Shram. Many are gig workers from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
2. Accident Insurance
Registered workers get free accident insurance of up to ₹2 lakh. This is helpful for delivery workers and drivers who face daily risks.
3. Better Data About Workers
With all workers in one system, the government now understands their needs better and can plan welfare programs accordingly.
What’s Not Working Yet?
Even with good progress, there are still problems:
1. Low Awareness
Many gig workers don’t know about e-Shram or how to register. Organizations like Marketplace Company are trying to spread the word and help workers sign up.
2. Delays in Benefits
Some workers say they’ve registered but haven’t received their benefits or face delays in getting insurance claims.
3. Limited Platform Involvement
Many gig work platforms haven’t fully partnered with the government yet. This makes it harder for workers to get help with registration and benefits.
How Employers and Platforms Can Help
Companies and platforms can make e-Shram more successful by:
Helping workers register during onboarding
Making workers aware of their rights and benefits
Partnering with the government to make benefit delivery smoother
Platforms using Marketplace Company’s solutions are already helping workers enroll and stay updated about welfare schemes.
What Gig Workers Should Do
If you’re a gig worker, here’s how you can benefit:
Register online at e-Shram portal or visit a Common Service Center (CSC) with Aadhaar and bank details.
Check your UAN regularly for updates on new benefits.
Contact organizations like Marketplace Company if you need help with registration or accessing your benefits.
The Road Ahead
The e-Shram portal is a big idea, but it still needs improvement. To make it work fully for gig workers:
More awareness campaigns are needed
Benefits should be delivered faster
Platforms and the government must work together
This system could become a model for protecting gig workers and adding benefits like pensions and health plans in the future.
Conclusion
The e-Shram portal is a good step toward supporting gig workers, but there’s more work to do. If you are a gig worker, don’t wait—get registered and secure your benefits.
For help with registration and updates on government schemes, visit Marketplace Company or connect with us on LinkedIn and Instagram. Together, we can build a safer, stronger future for India’s gig workforce.