Maharashtra Labor Minister Akash Fundkar informed the Assembly that the central government will soon establish a National Social Security Board for gig and platform workers. This board will provide healthcare, insurance, and family welfare services to delivery partners and freelancers. Until now, these workers were considered merely business partners, but under the new code, they have been formally designated as workers for the first time. Responding to questions from Congress MLA Hemant Ogale and BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar during Question Hour, Minister Akash Fundkar stated that the central government has implemented the Social Security Code, which will become effective in November 2025. It defines the status of gig and platform workers for the first time. Until now, they were viewed solely as independent contractors working on delivery-based payments. Laws in Rajasthan and Karnataka will be abolished. Fundkar provided important information, stating that the state laws will lapse upon the establishment of the National Social Security Board. Currently, states like Rajasthan and Karnataka have enacted their own laws for the welfare of gig workers. As per the central government’s directive, all states will now be required to adhere to the provisions of the Central Social Security Code. What benefits will gig workers receive? Following the formation of the National Board, gig workers are expected to receive these benefits… NTC mill workers’ dues will be paid in one year. The issue of mill workers also came up during the Assembly discussion. Responding to a question from Congress MLA Jyoti Gaikwad, the minister stated that the government is actively working to clear the dues of workers at the National Textile Corporation (NTC)’s closed mills in Mumbai. He stated that meetings are underway with central government officials and settlement options are being considered. As directed by the Bombay High Court, these dues will be paid within one year. Four major mills closed since the COVID-19 pandemic. The minister informed the House that four NTC mills in Mumbai have been completely closed since the COVID-19 pandemic. The workers’ unions at these mills had approached the Industrial Court and the High Court for payment of wages and other dues. Now, the state government and the central government are working together to find a solution to provide relief to thousands of families. Who are gig and platform workers? Read this news too… Swiggy-Zomato delivery boys will also get insurance: 90 days of work required for registration; draft rules for social security released. Millions of delivery boys and cab drivers across the country will now receive benefits like health insurance, life insurance, and accident cover. The central government has notified new draft rules under the Social Security Code 2020. Currently, the government has sought feedback on the draft rules, after which they will be finalized and implemented. The government took this step following the recent strike. Previously, companies like Zomato and Swiggy had also promised to give ₹120-150 per order during peak hours for occasions like New Year’s. Read the full news…
