If you are one of the millions of unorganized sector workers who has registered for an E-Shram card, it’s a powerful tool designed to give you access to various government benefits. However, to ensure these benefits reach you without any problem, there is an important and ongoing rule you must follow: keeping your card updated with your latest information.
What is the Most Important Rule?
The government is continuously focused on ensuring that all E-Shram card holder data is accurate and verified. The most critical requirement is to complete your e-KYC (Know Your Customer) and ensure your current bank account details are correctly linked.
While the major e-KYC drives have specific deadlines, this is an ongoing process. If your details change, or if you haven’t verified your account in a long time, you need to update it to be eligible for the next round of benefits.
Why is This So Important?
The government uses your E-Shram data for several key reasons, and if it’s incorrect, you could miss out.
- Direct Financial Aid: The primary reason is to send financial assistance (like the installment payments of ₹500 or ₹1000) directly to your bank account. If your bank account is inactive, incorrect, or not seeded with Aadhaar, the money will not be credited.
- Insurance Benefits: Your E-Shram card is linked to a free accident insurance policy under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), offering up to ₹2 lakh of coverage. For this policy to be active and for claims to be processed, your data must be accurate.
- Future Schemes: The E-Shram card will be the foundation for future government schemes, including pensions and other social security benefits for unorganized workers. A correct and verified profile is essential to be included.
What Happens if Your Card is Not Updated?
- You might not receive the next installment of financial assistance from the government.
- Your insurance benefits might be put on hold.
- You may be excluded from future social security schemes linked to the E-Shram portal.
How to Easily Update Your E-Shram Card (It’s Simple!)
You don’t need to go to any government office. There are two very easy ways to do this:
- Online Through the Official Portal (Self-Update):
- Visit the official E-Shram website: eshram.gov.in.
- Click on the “Update” or “Register on E-Shram” link.
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and the captcha code.
- You will receive an OTP. Enter it to log in.
- You can then view your profile and update your address, bank account details, occupation, and other information.
- Visit a Common Service Centre (CSC):
- If you’re not comfortable with the online process, simply visit your nearest CSC (जन सेवा केंद्र).
- Take your E-Shram card, Aadhaar card, and your bank passbook with you.
- The operator there will help you check and update all your details using biometric verification (your fingerprint).
Make it a habit to check your E-Shram card details once every few months. A few minutes of your time can ensure you and your family continue to receive the crucial benefits you are entitled to.