Under Chapter IX (Sections 113–114) of the Code on Social Security, 2020, which of the following correctly describes the registration and social security framework for Gig Workers and Platform Workers?

Solution

For the first time in India, the Code on Social Security, 2020 extends statutory social security protection to gig and platform workers under Chapter IX (Sections 113–114), recognising their non-traditional employment relationship with aggregators. Every gig and platform worker who is between 16 and 60 years of age must register on the National Portal using their Aadhaar number to avail social security benefits they are also issued a Unique Labour Identifier Number (ULIN) which is portable across the country. The Central Government may, by notification, frame schemes for these workers covering life and disability insurance, accident insurance, health and maternity benefits, old age care, and crèche facilities under Section 114. The National Social Security Board is responsible for recommending and monitoring schemes for gig and platform workers in addition to unorganised workers. Crucially, under the Code, aggregators (defined as digital intermediaries like app-based platforms) have a financial obligation to contribute to the social security fund for gig and platform workers a recognition that aggregators, though not legally "employers," derive economic value from these workers.