Labour Card in India: Benefits, Eligibility, and Application Process (2025)
In a country where millions work tirelessly in unorganized sectors—from construction sites to roadside eateries—a Labour Card isn’t just a piece of plastic or paper. It’s a lifeline.
If you’re a daily wage worker, or you know someone who earns their bread through hard manual labor, understanding the Labour Card in India can unlock access to powerful government schemes, financial support, and future security.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Labour Card in 2025—its benefits, who’s eligible, and how to apply. We’ll also share real-life stories, government insights, and updated information to make your journey simple and clear.
What Is a Labour Card?
A Labour Card is an official identity document issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment or respective state labour departments to workers in the unorganized sector. It’s part of the government’s effort to bring every worker under a formal social security net.
There are two types of Labour Cards:
Construction Labour Card – for workers in the building and construction industry.
Non-Construction Labour Card – for those in other unorganized sectors like agriculture, textiles, fishing, brick kilns, etc.
Why Is a Labour Card Important in 2025?
India’s unorganized sector contributes nearly 50% of the GDP and employs over 90% of the workforce, according to NITI Aayog. Yet, these workers often lack basic health benefits, pensions, or accident coverage.
With schemes like e-Shram, BOCW Welfare Board, and State Labour Welfare Funds, having a Labour Card is now essential to access:
Subsidized housing
Free skill training
Health insurance like PM-JAY
Maternity benefits
Educational scholarships for children
Pension schemes like PM-SYM
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Key Benefits of the Labour Card in India
Let’s dive into the core benefits you can access with a Labour Card in 2025.
🏥 1. Free Health Insurance (Up to ₹5 Lakh)
Workers registered under e-Shram and the Labour Welfare Board are eligible for free health coverage under Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY). This includes:
Free hospitalization
Emergency treatments
Surgeries and diagnostics
Real-Life Example:
Ravi, a 37-year-old mason from Bihar, had a heart attack in 2024. Thanks to his Labour Card, his family didn’t pay a rupee for the ₹2.8 lakh surgery at AIIMS Patna.
🧒 2. Scholarships for Children
Labour Cards entitle the worker’s children to scholarships ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹25,000 per year—based on the class and course.
🏘️ 3. Housing Assistance
Schemes like PM Awas Yojana offer financial grants for house construction to registered labourers.
🤰 4. Maternity and Disability Support
Pregnant women receive maternity benefits (₹3,000–₹5,000).
Workers who face temporary or permanent disability due to accidents can claim up to ₹2 lakh.
👵 5. Pension After 60
Workers who consistently contribute to the PM-SYM pension scheme are eligible for ₹3,000/month after retirement.
🔧 6. Free Skill Development Programs
Government-backed training in sectors like electrical work, tailoring, plumbing, etc., to help workers upgrade skills and increase income potential.
Who Is Eligible for a Labour Card in 2025?
To apply for a Labour Card in India in 2025, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
✅ Basic Eligibility
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 to 60 years |
| Occupation | Must work in the unorganized sector |
| Monthly income | Less than ₹15,000 (varies by state) |
| Employment type | Casual laborer, daily wage, self-employed |
| Aadhaar-linked bank account | Mandatory |
| State residency | Proof of domicile required |
📌 Note: Different states may have specific criteria. Always check with your State Labour Welfare Board for localized eligibility rules.
Documents Required for Labour Card Registration
Here’s a quick checklist of the documents you’ll need to apply:
Aadhaar Card (linked with mobile number)
Bank Passbook
Passport-size Photo
Proof of age (Birth certificate / School certificate)
Income certificate (if applicable)
Domicile certificate
Proof of work (Employer certificate / wage slip / self-declaration)
How to Apply for a Labour Card Online in 2025
Applying for a Labour Card is now easier than ever, thanks to online platforms like the e-Shram Portal and various state portals.
🖥️ Online Application Process (via e-Shram)
Visit the official portal: https://eshram.gov.in
Click on “Register on eShram”
Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
Fill in personal details like name, address, occupation
Upload necessary documents
Submit the form and download your e-Shram card
📲 Pro Tip: You can also visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) for free assistance with the application.
State-Specific Labour Card Registration
Many Indian states have their own portals for Labour Card registration. Here are some examples:
🔹 Kerala
Visit: https://blwb.kerala.gov.in
Board: Kerala Building & Other Construction Workers Welfare Board
🔹 Maharashtra
Visit: https://mahalabour.gov.in
Board: Maharashtra Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board
🔹 Uttar Pradesh
Visit: https://upbocw.in
Services: Online registration, accident insurance, maternity benefits