Gig and Platform Workers
First Formal Recognition
The Code on Social Security, 2020 formally recognises gig workers and platform workers for the first time in Indian labour law — bringing them within the ambit of social security without classifying them as traditional "employees." A "gig worker" is defined as a person who performs work outside traditional employer-employee relationships; a "platform worker" is one who accesses organisations through an online platform for payment. "Aggregators" — digital intermediaries connecting buyers and service providers — are required to contribute 1–2% of their annual turnover (capped at 5% of payments made to gig/platform workers) to a dedicated Social Security Fund.
- Gig/platform worker coverage: life insurance, disability insurance, health and maternity benefits, old-age protection
- Aggregator contribution: 1–2% of annual turnover, capped at 5% of worker payments
- Karnataka was the first state to introduce standalone gig worker legislation (Platform-Based Gig Workers Social Security and Welfare Bill, 2024)
- India has an estimated 7–8 million platform workers (gig economy), projected to grow significantly
● Tracked since February 28, 2026 · last seen May 10, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes