Funeral Assistance Scheme for Unorganized Workers (Except Construction Workers)

Gujarat Rural Workers Welfare Board runs Funeral Assistance Scheme for Unorganized Workers (Except Construction Workers) to help families of deceased unorganized sector workers cover funeral and last rites expenses. The scheme gives a one-time payment of ₹10,000 to one eligible heir of a deceased e-Shram card holder.

In 2025-26, the state disbursed a record ₹7.14 crore to 7,145 heirs under this scheme, the highest annual payout since it started in 2011. Over the past decade, the scheme has given more than ₹13.73 crore to 26,657 beneficiaries. This welfare support helps families manage funeral costs during a difficult time.

Funeral Assistance Scheme for Unorganized Workers (Except Construction Workers) - Introduction

Funeral Assistance Scheme for Unorganized Workers (Except Construction Workers) serves as a support system for the families of workers who have passed away. Launched by the Gujarat Rural Workers Welfare Board under the Labour and Employment Department of the Government of Gujarat, it provides financial help to cover burial or cremation expenses during difficult times.

If you are an heir to a deceased e-Shram card holder, this scheme offers a one-time grant of ₹10,000. The amount was raised from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 to give families better support. This scheme is specifically reserved for unorganized sector workers, excluding construction laborers and those belonging to the Scheduled Caste category, who are covered through separate schemes.

Key Information

Benefits

This scheme provides a fixed, one-time payment of ₹10,000 to one eligible heir of a deceased unorganized sector worker. This amount helps cover the costs of funeral rites and essential ceremonies after the loss of a loved one. The payment is transferred directly to the bank account of the approved heir.

Eligibility

To receive this support, you should meet the following criteria:

• You must be a legal heir of a deceased e-Shram card holder from the unorganized sector.
• You should be a resident of Gujarat.
• You are required to submit your application within 3 months from the date of the worker's passing.
• The deceased worker must have been between 16 and 70 years of age at the time of their death.
• Your total annual family income should not exceed ₹1,20,000 if you live in a rural area, or ₹1,50,000 if you live in an urban area.
• Only one family member is eligible to claim this benefit.

Priority Order for Heirs:

If multiple relatives apply, the government considers claims in this specific order: (1) Husband or Wife, (2) Children, (3) Parents, (4) Grandchildren, (5) Unmarried, widowed, or abandoned sisters, and (6) Other heirs recognized by the Indian Succession Act, 1925.

Exclusions

You should be aware that this scheme does not cover specific groups:

• Construction workers or e-Nirman card holders.
• Individuals belonging to the Scheduled Caste category (they have access to separate schemes).
• Anyone who has already claimed help via similar financial assistance programs.

Application Process

You should follow this simple process to apply:

STEP 1 - Obtain the official application form (Annexure-1) from the nearest government labour office. You can also collect it from the office of the Assistant Government Labour Officer, Government Labour Officer, Assistant Labour Commissioner, or Deputy Labour Commissioner.

STEP 2 - Fill in every required detail accurately. Paste a passport-sized photograph, attach all necessary documents, and ensure you sign where requested.

STEP 3 - Submit your completed application to the office of the Assistant Government Labour Officer, Government Labour Officer, Assistant Labour Commissioner, or Deputy Labour Commissioner.

STEP 4 - Always collect a signed acknowledgement receipt confirming the date and time of your submission. Applications submitted after the 3 month deadline are automatically cancelled.

Verification Details:

The authorities will verify your claim within 10 working days. If any information is missing, they will notify you, and you should provide the corrected documents within 15 days. Upon final approval, the ₹10,000 grant is transferred directly to your bank account.

Documents

Please keep the following documents ready for your application:

• Copy of e-Shram Card.
• Ration Card.
• Caste Certificate (if applicable).
• Income Certificate as per the prescribed format.
• Death Certificate of the deceased worker.
• Advance Receipt of money with a revenue stamp.
• Bank passbook copy or a cancelled cheque.
• A signed Guarantee Letter declaring that no other similar assistance has been received.
• Age proof of the deceased (Aadhaar card, birth certificate, or school leaving certificate).

References

Gujarat disburses record funeral aid to unorganised workers

FAQ's

What is the deadline for applying for this scheme?

You must apply within 3 months from the date of the worker's death. Applications submitted after this deadline are automatically cancelled.

Can construction workers apply for this?

No, this scheme is strictly for unorganized sector workers and does not include construction or e-Nirman card holders.

What defines the income threshold for urban residents?

Your annual income must stay below ₹1,50,000 to qualify if you live in an urban city.

Is the assistance payment recurring?

No, it is a one-time payment of ₹10,000 intended only for immediate funeral expenses.

What if I am from a Scheduled Caste category?

You are not covered under this specific scheme, as the Social Justice and Empowerment Department provides separate benefits for you.