Social Security and Health Insurance for Gig Workers

The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced social security measures and health insurance for gig workers, recognizing their contributions to India's growing digital economy.

Key Announcements for Gig Workers
1.    Social Security Benefits:
o    One crore gig workers associated with online platforms will now receive government-backed social security benefits.
o    Mandatory registration on the e-Shram portal will allow them access to government welfare schemes.
2.    Health Insurance Inclusion:
o    Gig workers will now be covered under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana (Ayushman Bharat).
o    This will provide health insurance and medical benefits for gig economy workers.
3.    Recognition and Regulation:
o    The government aims to establish official recognition and policy framework for gig workers.
o    Workers from Uber, Ola, Zomato, Swiggy, and other online platforms will now be considered under social security laws.
4.    Digital Registration for Better Assistance:
o    The e-Shram portal, launched in 2021, has already registered 30.58 crore unorganized sector workers.
o    12 government schemes are now integrated into the portal for worker benefits.
Why This Matters
•    Gig workers, who lack traditional employer-employee relationships, often face job insecurity and financial instability.
•    With this move, the government ensures greater financial and medical security for them.