Prelims perspective: What needs to be learned
- Who are Gig and Platform Workers
- Government Initiatives for Gig and Platform Workers
Mains Perspective: Notes need to be prepared
- Contribution of Gig and Platform workers to Indian economy and the Challenges faced by them (GS III- Economy)
- Effect of gig workers on Indian society (GS -I Society)
What needs to be Known
- Gig and Platform workers in India:
- Gig Workers: Individuals who earn their livelihood through non-traditional work arrangements, such as freelancing, project-based assignments, or short-term contractual engagements, rather than a conventional employer–employee relationship.
- Example: Freelance writers, event-based musicians, independent consultants, casual wage workers, and traditional artisans.
- Platform Workers: A distinct category of gig worker whose tasks are sourced, coordinated, and managed through digital platforms or mobile applications.
- Example: Food delivery services (such as Zomato and Swiggy), ride-sharing platforms (like Ola and Uber), e-commerce delivery services, and similar app-based on-demand work arrangements.
- The Code on Social Security, 2020 for the first time, legally recognizes these workers.
- Gig Workers: Individuals who earn their livelihood through non-traditional work arrangements, such as freelancing, project-based assignments, or short-term contractual engagements, rather than a conventional employer–employee relationship.
- Government Initiatives:
- e-Shram portal enables self-registration for over 5 lakh gig workers.
- Code on Social Security 2020 mandates aggregators contribute 1-2% of turnover to a dedicated Social Security Fund for accident insurance, health, maternity benefits, and pensions.
- Union Budget 2025-26 mandates Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY healthcare extension for nearly 1 crore gig workers on online platforms.
- State-level boards in Karnataka, Telangana, and others complement national efforts with local welfare funds.
Source: The Hindu