New Social Security Rules to Redefine Benefits for Gig Workers

The Centre has released a draft of new Social Security Code rules that could significantly reshape welfare coverage for gig and platform workers across India. Issued under the Labour Codes framework for public consultation, the proposal lays down minimum engagement thresholds and compliance obligations that will directly impact workers associated with food delivery, quick commerce and ride-hailing platforms.

Minimum Work Period for Social Security Eligibility

Under the draft rules, gig and platform workers will be eligible for social security benefits only if they are engaged for at least 90 days with an aggregator in a financial year. In cases where a worker is associated with multiple aggregators, the eligibility threshold rises to 120 days. Importantly, the rules clarify that engagement begins from the day a worker starts earning income, irrespective of the amount earned.

Cumulative Counting Across Multiple Platforms

The draft introduces cumulative counting of workdays for those operating on more than one platform. If a worker delivers for Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit or Zepto on the same day, each engagement will be counted separately. This provision is expected to benefit multi-platform workers by helping them reach eligibility thresholds faster.

Registration, Aadhaar Linking and Identity Cards

All gig and platform workers above 16 years of age will be required to register on a central government portal through Aadhaar-based self-declaration. Aggregators must upload worker details for generating a Universal Account Number and ensure registration at the time of onboarding. Registered workers will receive a digital or physical identity card, downloadable from the portal, enabling access to notified social security schemes.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Social Security Code is one of four Labour Codes enacted to consolidate labour laws.
• Gig and platform workers are classified under the unorganised sector.
• Eligibility thresholds differ for single and multiple aggregators.
• Aadhaar-based registration is mandatory under Section 113 of the Code.

Impact on Aggregators and Worker Continuity

The draft mandates all aggregators to register on the designated government portal and regularly update worker data. Workers will cease to be eligible for benefits upon attaining 60 years of age or if they remain disengaged for 90 days, or 120 days in the case of multiple aggregators, in the preceding financial year. If implemented, the rules will increase compliance costs for platforms while extending formal social security coverage to a rapidly growing gig workforce.