India Plans Social Security for Gig Workers

The Indian government is set to introduce a social security framework for gig workers, which will include health insurance and pension benefits, before the national budget in February. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the urgency of implementing these protections as gig workers, estimated to number over 2 crore, are currently not covered under existing labour codes. This initiative, aimed at addressing the needs of workers like ride-hailing drivers and delivery personnel, is a response to the growing gig economy and will ensure that these workers receive basic rights and benefits. Measures will include life and disability insurance, accident coverage, and maternity benefits for female workers. The framework will be legally binding nationwide and may involve the creation of unique identification numbers to streamline benefit distribution. The government is also exploring funding options, including a proposed cess on transactions in the gig sector, to support these welfare schemes.