Social Security Scheme for Gig Workers - Benefits, Eligibility & How to Apply

The Union Budget 2025 represents a significant step toward recognising and providing social security benefits to platform-based gig workers. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has introduced measures to issue unique identity cards, thus simplifying their registration on the e-Shram portal and granting them healthcare coverage under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana. These initiatives aim to enhance protection and support for over one crore gig workers across various sectors.

What Is Social Security Scheme for Gig Workers?

During the presentation of her eighth consecutive budget in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman emphasised the significant role gig workers play in the new-age services economy. In recognition of their contribution, arrangements will be made for their identification and registration on the e-Shram portal. 

Additionally, healthcare benefits under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana will be extended to these workers.

Benefits of Social Security Scheme for Gig Workers

The Union Budget 2025-26 introduces a pivotal initiative to provide formal recognition and social security benefits to gig workers in the platform-based economy. The following measures will enhance the safety net for over one crore gig workers, ensuring better access to essential services and protections across various sectors.

• The government will issue identity cards and register all gig workers on a national database for the unorganised sector.
• This move will formally recognise gig workers and improve their access to essential services.
• Improved access to health, housing, skill development, insurance, credit, and food schemes will benefit workers.
• gig workers will be provided medical insurance under the world’s largest healthcare program.
• The healthcare scheme offers free treatment for serious illnesses and annual coverage of 500,000 rupees ($5,724) for low-income families.

Eligibility For Social Security Scheme For Gig Workers

According to the Code on Social Security, 2020, a gig worker is an individual who earns income or performs tasks outside the conventional employer-employee framework, primarily through on-demand roles such as ride-hailing, food delivery, or freelance services.

Therefore, any worker employed in the unorganised sector and aged between 16 and 59 years is eligible to register on the e-Shram portal for the Social Security Scheme, provided they meet the necessary criteria.

What Is The e-Shram Portal?

Launched in August 2021 by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, the e-Shram platform is a centralised National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW) designed to streamline the distribution of welfare benefits and social security schemes to unorganised sector workers. By registering on e-Shram, workers receive a unique identity card and a Universal Account Number (UAN), which grants them easier access to government programs and services. 

As of January 27, 2025, over 30.58 crore unorganised workers have registered, and 12 government schemes have been integrated with the platform. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately one crore gig workers nationwide.

How To Apply For e-Shram Card Online

The e-Shram platform, introduced by the Government of India, is designed to offer social security benefits to workers in the unorganised sector. It streamlines access to government welfare schemes while maintaining a detailed database of registered workers. Follow these steps to apply for an e-Shram card online: 

• Go to the official e-Shram self-registration page.
• Input your Aadhaar-linked phone number and click on “Send OTP.”
• Accept the terms and conditions, enter the OTP received, and provide your Aadhaar number.
• Review the pre-filled information, and update your address, education, nominee details, and bank details in the required fields.
• Choose your skill type, business category, and nature of work.
• After submission, your e-Shram card will be generated and provided to you.

The Social Security Scheme for gig workers is a monumental step toward their recognition and welfare. It ensures a secure future for India's growing gig workforce by providing healthcare, financial security, and access to various government schemes. Gig workers can easily register and avail themselves of these crucial benefits through the e-Shram portal, thereby contributing to their overall well-being and social security.

Find out more about Union Budget 2025 schemes!
Union Budget 2025: Full List of Schemes Announced By Finance Minister