What Coverage do Gig Workers Qualify for?
The gig economy in India is booming. From food delivery and ride-sharing to freelance writing and graphic design, millions of individuals rely on gig work to earn a living. However, until recently, most gig workers had limited access to social security, healthcare, and government benefits. The Union Budget 2025 aims to change this. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several initiatives to officially recognize gig workers, provide social security, and make it easier for them to access government programs.
This article breaks down everything gig workers need to know about coverage, eligibility, and how to secure benefits in 2025.
What’s the Social Security Scheme for Gig Workers?
Gig workers have been an essential part of India’s service-based economy. Yet, due to the informal nature of their jobs, many have historically been excluded from traditional social security systems. The Union Budget 2025 addresses this gap by introducing targeted measures for gig workers.
Key initiatives include:
- Official Recognition: Gig workers will receive ID cards to verify their employment status.
- National Database Enrollment: Workers can register on the e-Shram portal, India’s centralized platform for unorganised workers.
- Healthcare Access: Gig workers will be included under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana, one of the world’s largest healthcare schemes, offering coverage for serious illnesses.
These steps aim to empower over 1 crore gig workers in India, ensuring they are protected and supported while contributing to the economy.
Key Benefits of This Scheme
The 2025 budget introduces multiple benefits for gig workers, improving financial stability and access to essential services. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Official ID Cards
Every registered gig worker will receive a unique ID card, making it easier to:
- Verify employment status
- Access government schemes
- Apply for loans or credit
2. Healthcare Coverage
Through PM Jan Arogya Yojana, registered gig workers can access:
- Free treatment for major illnesses
- Annual healthcare coverage of up to ₹5 lakh for low-income families
3. Access to Government Programs
Registration on the e-Shram portal opens doors to:
- Skill development programs
- Housing schemes
- Insurance and pension plans
- Food and welfare benefits
4. Financial Inclusion
Formal recognition enables gig workers to:
- Apply for microloans
- Get insurance tailored for unorganised sector workers
- Improve long-term financial security
These benefits represent a significant step toward reducing the economic vulnerability of gig workers.
Also Read: Can I get coverage if I’m unemployed?
Who’s Eligible?
Understanding eligibility is key to benefiting from these initiatives. The Code on Social Security (2020) defines a gig worker as someone engaged in short-term or task-based jobs, often facilitated by digital platforms. This includes:
- Ride-sharing drivers
- Food delivery personnel
- Freelancers (writers, designers, developers)
- Home service providers (plumbers, electricians, tutors)
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Must belong to the unorganised sector
- Age between 16 and 59 years
- Meet the minimum requirements to register on the e-Shram portal
If you meet these conditions, you are eligible to access the social security and healthcare benefits outlined in the budget.
Also Read: What Plans are Best for Low-Income Individuals?
What Is the e-Shram Portal?
The e-Shram portal, launched in August 2021, is a government initiative designed to centralize information on unorganised workers. Key highlights:
- Unique ID and UAN: Every worker gets a Universal Account Number (UAN), simplifying access to government schemes.
- Centralized Database: As of January 2025, over 30.58 crore workers are registered.
- Linked Schemes: The portal connects workers to 12 major government programs, including healthcare, insurance, and skill development schemes.
Gig workers who register on the portal can now access benefits seamlessly and securely.
How to Apply for an e-Shram Card (Step-by-Step)
Getting your e-Shram card is free, straightforward, and takes only a few minutes. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official e-Shram registration page
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and click Send OTP
- Accept terms and enter OTP received on your mobile
- Verify Aadhaar details
- Update personal info: address, education, bank details, nominee info
- Select skill type, business category, and type of work
- Submit the form
After submission, your e-Shram card and UAN will be generated, granting you access to social security benefits and government schemes.
Also Read: Which Insurance Plans Cover Self-Employed Individuals?
Final Thoughts
- Riya, a food delivery executive in Bengaluru: Before registration, she had no access to health insurance. After registering on e-Shram, she now has coverage under PM Jan Arogya Yojana.
- Arjun, a freelance graphic designer in Mumbai: By getting his ID card, he was able to apply for a microloan to expand his business.
These cases highlight how official recognition and access to government programs directly improve financial security and well-being.
FAQs About Gig Worker Coverage
Q1. Can gig workers under 18 register on the e-Shram portal?
Yes, as long as they are 16 years or older, they are eligible.
Q2. Does registration cost anything?
No, e-Shram registration is completely free.
Q3. Can part-time gig workers register?
Yes, all workers in the unorganised sector, whether full-time or part-time, can register.
Q4. How long does it take to receive the e-Shram card?
Typically, within a few days after form submission.
Q5. What healthcare benefits do gig workers get?
Coverage under PM Jan Arogya Yojana includes up to ₹5 lakh per year for major illnesses, with free treatment for low-income families.
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