SUMMARY
- A social security policy for gig workers, offering pension and health services, is in the works, per Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
- Niti Aayog estimates 65 lakh gig workers, with the number likely to exceed 2 crore.
- The policy will provide benefits ahead of the Code on Social Security 2020, which has yet to take effect.
Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Thursday that the government is finalizing a social security policy aimed at providing benefits like pension and health services to the rapidly growing number of gig and platform workers in India. The policy is expected to offer coverage even before the full implementation of the Code on Social Security 2020.
During a press briefing, Mandaviya stated that Niti Aayog had estimated around 65 lakh gig workers in India, but the actual figure could exceed 2 crore due to the rapid expansion of the sector. He emphasized that as the service sector increasingly shifts to platforms, there is an urgent need to provide these workers with the necessary social security protections. The ministry is also considering suggestions, such as introducing unique identity numbers for gig workers and exploring ways to fund social security contributions.
The Code on Social Security 2020 legally defines “gig workers” and “platform workers,” and includes provisions for life, disability cover, maternity benefits, and old age protection. However, the code has yet to be enforced.
