Gig firm contributions towards staff social security to be mandatory soon

Code approved by Cabinet will also have provisions enabling self-employed workers to make voluntary contribution towards EPF schemes; Gig workers to enjoy ESIC benefits as well

Gig companies will be asked to make a contribution towards social security funds set up for platform workers, according to the social security code approved by the Union Cabinet on Tuesday.

The code will also have enabling provisions to allow self-employed workers to make voluntary contribution towards the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) schemes, said a senior government official.

“The code has made provisions for contribution from companies towards gig workers. There will not be worker-based contribution, but some monetary contribution towards funds meant for social security cover of gig workers,” the official said.

Further, workers employed in the gig economy will also be