Who qualifies as a construction worker
The Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act covers workers engaged in civil construction tasks.
Eligible occupations include:
- Masons, bricklayers, concrete workers, carpenters, bar benders, painters, plumbers, and electricians.
- Road workers, bridge builders, earthmovers, and demolition laborers.
- Must be between 18 and 60 years of age.
- Must have worked for at least 90 days in building or construction work in the preceding 12 months.
- Pure agricultural field laborers are excluded and covered separately under e-Shram.
Welfare benefits available through a Labour Card
State welfare boards administer comprehensive social security funds for registered members.
Key entitlements include:
- Financial ex-gratia for accidental death or permanent physical disability sustained on or off work sites.
- Annual educational assistance and scholarship grants for the worker's children from primary school through professional degrees.
- Maternity benefit assistance for female workers and marriage assistance for registered workers or their daughters.
- Grants for purchasing essential artisan tools, safety kits, and equipment.
How to register and renew online
Workers can apply through their state BOCW portal or the central Shram Suvidha portal (shramsuvidha.gov.in). Documents required include an Aadhaar card, bank passbook, age proof, and a 90-day employment certificate issued by an employer, registered contractor, trade union, or local authority.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Ministry of Labour and Employment, Govt of India ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the 90-day rule for obtaining a BOCW Labour Card?
Applicants must demonstrate that they were engaged in construction or building work for at least 90 days during the preceding 12 months.
How long is a BOCW Labour Card valid?
Validity depends on state rules, typically ranging from one to three years, after which it must be renewed by paying a nominal annual contribution.
Can farm agricultural laborers get a BOCW Labour Card?
BOCW cards are specifically for construction and allied civil trades; agricultural workers are covered under e-Shram and agricultural worker programs.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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