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Gig Workers' Social Security Boosted by New Levy
4 Nov
Summary
- Aggregators may face a 2% transaction levy for gig worker benefits.
- Scheme aims to cover over 12 million gig workers by 2027.
- Funding will solely come from aggregators, not the government or workers.
The Indian government is actively considering a new social security scheme for its burgeoning gig and platform workforce, aiming for a 2027 implementation. This initiative could introduce a 2% transaction levy on aggregators, differing from a turnover-based tax, to ensure equitable contribution across the sector.
The National Social Security Board is set to finalize the scheme's details this month. Crucially, the entire financial burden will rest on aggregators, with no contributions required from the central government or the gig workers themselves. This dedicated funding stream will support benefits such as life, disability, and accident insurance, along with health and maternity coverage.
India's gig workforce has seen substantial growth, expanding by 55% to 12 million in 2025-26 and projected to reach 23.5 million by 2029-30. This policy aims to provide essential social security, with potential for expanded old-age benefits like pensions contingent on the long-term association of gig workers with platforms.
