News Summary

India has granted legal status to millions of gig and platform workers under its newly implemented labor laws, marking a significant milestone for the country’s delivery, ride-hailing, and e-commerce workforce. However, access to social security remains elusive, as platforms assess their obligations and the benefits remain unclear. The Code on Social Security, part of the new framework, requires aggregators to contribute a percentage of their annual revenue to a government-managed social security fund. Despite the recognition, the specifics of the benefits, eligibility, and delivery mechanisms are still undefined. The creation of Social Security Boards aims to design welfare schemes for gig workers, but details on decision-making and influence remain vague. The reform has been publicly welcomed by platform companies, but concerns about compliance challenges and financial impact persist. Registration on the E-Shram portal is necessary for gig workers to access benefits, yet many are reluctant due to potential lost wages. The broader debate over whether gig workers should be treated as employees continues, with the new laws defining them as a separate category.