Govt to Ensure Social Security for Gig Workers via Labour Codes
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Union Labour Minister Mandaviya stated in Rajya Sabha that the government will implement labour codes to provide social security to gig workers. This addresses the growing gig economy's need for formal protections.
Background
Gig workers are part of the informal sector, often lacking benefits like health insurance, provident fund, and pension. The government's four labour codes (2020) aim to universalize social security, but implementation is pending.
Key facts
Gig workers are a new and emerging system in India.
Government will ensure social security for gig workers through labour codes implementation.
Statement made during Question Hour in Rajya Sabha by Labour Minister Mandaviya.
Labour codes include Code on Wages, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code, and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code.
Social Security Code 2020 defines 'gig worker' and 'platform worker' and provides for their registration and social security benefits.
Implementation of labour codes is pending due to state-level rule framing.
Gig economy in India includes sectors like ride-hailing, food delivery, and e-commerce.
Prelims pointers
- Social Security Code, 2020
- Gig worker definition under Social Security Code
- Platform worker definition
- Labour codes: Code on Wages, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code, Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code
- Question Hour in Rajya Sabha
- Ministry of Labour and Employment
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for vulnerable sections – gig workers
- GS3: Informal sector, labour reforms, and social security
- GS3: Gig economy – opportunities and challenges