Daily Current Affairs : 21-March-2024
The Supreme Court of India these days issued a crucial directive requiring all states and Union territories to offer ration cards to migrant workers registered at the e-Shram portal within two months. This choice highlights the continuing challenges confronted by many employees in gaining access to vital food materials.
Background
In April 2023, the government had been given a three-month duration to make certain that ration cards were issued to workers. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of compliance with this directive, which precipitated the Supreme Court’s recent ruling. This scenario is especially concerning given that about 8 crore out of 29 crore registrants at the e-Shram portal do not have ration cards. These workers are currently unable to access subsidized food grains under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013.
Key Statistics
- Total registrants on e-Shram: 29 crore
- Registrants without ration cards: 8 crore
- Legal framework: National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013
Importance of the e-Shram Portal
The e-Shram portal plays a crucial role in supporting unorganized workers in India. Here are some of its key features:
- Centralized Database: The portal serves as a comprehensive database that helps implement various social security services for unorganized people.
- Information Sharing: It facilitates information sharing among stakeholders, which is critical during national crises.
- Aadhaar Integration: The portal uses Aadhaar to deliver social security benefits, ensuring that they are accessible and portable for migrant and construction workers at their workplaces.
Important Points:
Supreme Court Directive: All states and Union territories must issue ration cards to migrant workers registered on the e-Shram portal within two months.
Previous Compliance Issues: The government was given a three-month period in April 2023 to issue ration cards, but there was a lack of compliance.
Current Statistics:
- Total registrants on e-Shram: 29 crore
- Registrants without ration cards: 8 crore
Legal Framework: Ration cards are linked to the National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013.
Role of the e-Shram Portal:
- Acts as a centralized database for unorganized workers.
- Facilitates information sharing among stakeholders during national crises.
- Utilizes Aadhaar for delivering portable social security benefits to workers.
Goal: To ensure food security and access to essential resources for vulnerable migrant laborers.
Why In News
The Supreme Court of India has directed all states and Union territories to issue ration cards to migrant laborers registered on the e-Shram portal within two months, emphasizing the urgent need to address food insecurity among this vulnerable population.
MCQs about Ensuring Food Security for Migrant Workers in India
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What recent directive did the Supreme Court of India issue regarding migrant laborers?
A. To increase their wages
B. To issue ration cards to those registered on the e-Shram portal
C. To provide housing facilities
D. To eliminate the e-Shram portal
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What was the primary reason for the Supreme Court’s recent ruling?
A. Previous compliance failures
B. Increased number of workers
C. Lack of food production
D. Economic downturn
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What role does the e-Shram portal play in supporting unorganized workers?
A. It provides direct financial aid.
B. It serves as a centralized database for social security services.
C. It regulates labor laws.
D. It facilitates employment opportunities.
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