GUWAHATI: App-based driver associations have called for mandatory data sharing by platform companies to guarantee the effective implementation of the government’s newly announced social security measures for gig and platform workers.
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The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, introduced initiatives such as Universal Account Number (UAN) identity cards, registration on the e-Shram portal, and healthcare benefits under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). However, worker unions argue that these schemes cannot be fully implemented without access to workforce data from aggregator companies.
“Gig workers on online platforms bring significant dynamism to the new-age services economy”, remarked Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
Shaik Salauddin, National General Secretary of the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), stressed that platform companies must not only share workforce data but also contribute financially to social security schemes. He emphasised the need for better integration of e-Shram registration with existing welfare programmes.
“There is a need to ensure contributions by aggregator companies towards social security schemes for gig and platform workers”, said Shaik Salauddin
Assam State Driver Union President Dhrubaraj Axom echoed similar concerns, pointing out that, despite years of struggle, drivers still lack a dedicated welfare board and a national law protecting their rights.
“However, despite a five-year-long struggle, workers continue to await a comprehensive national law, a dedicated welfare board, and full implementation of these measures,” said Assam State Driver Union President Dhrubaraj axom.
While the Code on Social Security provides for life and disability cover, accidental insurance, health and maternity benefits, and old-age protection for gig workers, driver associations insist that without strict enforcement and full cooperation from platform companies, these measures will remain ineffective. They continue to push for greater accountability and transparency in data sharing to guarantee that gig workers receive the benefits they are entitled to.
