Gig workers working with platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Ola, Uber and Rapido may soon have to follow stricter rules to receive social security benefits.
The Indian government has finalized new rules under the Code on Social Security (CoSS). These rules decide who will get benefits like health insurance, life insurance,
and accident insurance. However, people doing part-time work on these platforms may find it difficult to qualify.
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Minimum Working Days Now Mandatory
Under the new rules, workers must complete a minimum number of working days in a year to become eligible for social security benefits.
If a person works with only one platform, such as only Zomato, they must work at least 90 days in a year.
But if a worker is active on two platforms at the same time, such as both Ola and Uber, the minimum limit increases to 120 days.
There is also an important change for workers using multiple apps daily. If a person earns money from three different aggregator companies in a single day, that one day will be counted as three separate working days.
Companies Face Strict Reporting Rules
The government has also tightened rules for aggregator companies.
Every company must upload details of gig workers to the central government portal within 45 days. Any new joining or exit of workers must be updated daily or in real time.
After successful registration, eligible workers will receive a unique ID card.
Companies that fail to deposit their share into the Social Security Fund will face penalties. They may have to pay 12% yearly interest, which is equal to 1% every month.
Benefits Will Stop After 60 Years
The new rules also mention an age limit.
Once a gig worker turns 60 years old, they will no longer receive social security benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, or accident insurance.
At the same time, workers who fail to complete the required 90 or 120 working days in the previous financial year may lose their eligibility for these benefits.
States Can Introduce Their Own Rules
The central government’s rules will act as a framework for states.
After these final rules are officially notified, state governments will be allowed to create and implement their own social security policies for gig and platform workers based on these guidelines.