Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Launches eShram: A One-Stop Solution for Unorganised Workers’ Welfare
Introduction to eShram
On October 17, 2024, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, unveiled the eShram portal, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the welfare of unorganised workers in India. This digital platform seeks to streamline the registration and provision of benefits for the vast and often overlooked workforce that constitutes a significant portion of the country’s economy. With over 38 crore unorganised workers identified, eShram is poised to bring much-needed support and resources to this vital segment.
Features of the eShram Portal
The eShram portal is designed to be user-friendly, enabling unorganised workers to register easily and access various welfare schemes. The platform offers features such as skill mapping, health insurance, and pension schemes. It aims to provide these workers with a single-window solution for all their needs, facilitating a direct connection to government initiatives and resources. Additionally, the eShram portal is expected to integrate with various ministries and departments, enhancing its effectiveness and reach.
Government’s Commitment to Unorganised Workers
The launch of eShram underscores the Indian government’s commitment to improving the lives of unorganised workers, who often lack access to basic benefits and protections. By establishing a dedicated portal, the government aims to empower these workers by ensuring they receive the entitlements and support necessary for their livelihoods. This initiative is a part of the broader strategy to formalise the workforce and ensure social security for all workers.
Benefits for Stakeholders
The eShram initiative is not just beneficial for workers; it also presents advantages for stakeholders across the spectrum. Employers can access a more organised workforce, while government agencies can streamline their efforts in delivering welfare services. Furthermore, by facilitating skill development and training programs through the portal, the government is fostering a more skilled workforce, which is essential for the country’s economic growth.
Why This News is Important
Addressing the Needs of Unorganised Workers
The eShram portal’s launch is significant as it directly addresses the long-standing challenges faced by unorganised workers in India. This demographic often lacks access to essential services such as health care, social security, and job security, making initiatives like eShram crucial for their welfare.
Promoting Social Security
By providing a digital platform for unorganised workers, the government is promoting social security and welfare schemes. This initiative aligns with global trends towards digitisation and social protection, ensuring that the rights and needs of workers are met in a timely and efficient manner.
Economic Growth and Formalisation
The eShram initiative contributes to the formalisation of the workforce, which is essential for economic growth. A more structured and organised workforce can lead to increased productivity and better compliance with labor laws, ultimately benefiting the economy as a whole.
Historical Context
The Rise of Unorganised Workers in India
Unorganised workers have long constituted a significant part of India’s labor market, often engaged in various sectors such as agriculture, construction, and services. Historically, this workforce has been marginalised, lacking access to basic rights and protections. Over the years, numerous attempts have been made to address these issues through various policies and schemes, yet many challenges remain.
Previous Initiatives
Prior to eShram, the government launched several initiatives aimed at supporting unorganised workers, including the National Health Mission and various skill development programs. However, the lack of a cohesive platform to unify these efforts limited their effectiveness. The launch of eShram represents a crucial step towards overcoming these barriers and ensuring that unorganised workers receive the comprehensive support they deserve.
Key Takeaways from “eShram: A One-Stop Solution for Unorganised Workers’ Welfare”
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | The eShram portal was launched on October 17, 2024. |
| 2 | Over 38 crore unorganised workers in India are targeted. |
| 3 | eShram provides a one-stop solution for welfare schemes. |
| 4 | The initiative aims to enhance social security for workers. |
| 5 | eShram supports the formalisation of the unorganised workforce. |
Important FAQs for Students from this News
1. What is eShram?
eShram is a digital platform launched by the Indian government aimed at enhancing the welfare of unorganised workers. It provides a one-stop solution for registration and access to various welfare schemes.
2. Who can register on the eShram portal?
Any unorganised worker in India can register on the eShram portal, which includes individuals engaged in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and services.
3. What benefits does the eShram portal provide?
The eShram portal offers various benefits, including health insurance, pension schemes, and skill mapping, ensuring that workers receive the entitlements necessary for their livelihoods.
4. How does eShram contribute to economic growth?
By formalising the unorganised workforce and providing access to social security, eShram enhances productivity and compliance with labor laws, thereby contributing to overall economic growth.
5. What is the significance of the eShram initiative for the government?
The eShram initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the lives of unorganised workers and ensuring they have access to essential services and protections.
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