Answer:

Introduction:

The recent heatwave in India, which saw temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius in several regions, has exacerbated the challenges faced by gig workers, particularly delivery personnel. Reports highlighted that many delivery workers, who operate under the gig economy, suffered from heat exhaustion and dehydration due to prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions without adequate health-safety measures and minimal breaks.

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Challenges Faced by Gig Workers:

• Lack of Social Security: Gig workers often do not have access to health insurance, retirement benefits, or paid leave, leaving them financially vulnerable during times of illness or injury.
• Income Instability: The earnings of gig workers can be highly variable and unpredictable, making financial planning difficult.
• Poor Working Conditions: Many gig workers, especially delivery personnel, face harsh working conditions, including exposure to extreme weather.
• Limited Legal Protection: Gig workers are typically classified as independent contractors, which excludes them from many labour protections that formal employees receive.

Measures Needed for Protection and Fair Treatment:

• Social Security and Health Benefits: Extend social security benefits, including health insurance, maternity benefits, and pensions, to gig workers. For example: The Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, aims to provide social security to gig workers, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
• Minimum Wage and Income Security: Establish a minimum wage policy for gig workers to ensure a stable income and minimum number of paid hours or earnings.                        
  For example: Singapore’s proposed legislative changes include extending work injury insurance and pension coverage to gig workers, which India could emulate.
• Legal Recognition and Rights: Recognize gig workers as employees or provide them with similar rights and protections. This includes the right to organise and form unions.
  For example: Legal battles in the UK and California have led to gig workers being recognised as employees, entitled to minimum wage and other benefits.
• Improved Working Conditions: Mandate platforms to ensure safe working conditions, including providing protective gear, regular breaks, and measures to safeguard workers from extreme weather.
  For example: Guidelines for digital platforms in India have been issued to promote fair practices and grievance redressal mechanisms, but enforcement needs to be strengthened.
• Access to Justice: Establish independent labour courts and ensure they have the capacity to handle cases promptly and fairly.
  For example: Qatar’s labour dispute committees have improved access to justice, but delays and enforcement issues persist, requiring further reform.
• Training and Skill Development: Launch skill development programs to enhance the employability and income potential of gig workers. This includes training in financial literacy and digital skills.
  For example: Government initiatives like Skill India can be expanded to specifically target gig workers, providing them with relevant skills and training.
• Enhanced Digital Infrastructure: Use digital platforms to streamline registration and access to welfare schemes. Integrate gig worker data into national labour databases to improve service delivery.
  For example: India’s e-Shram portal, which aims to create a national database of unorganised workers, can be leveraged to include gig workers, ensuring they receive timely benefits.

Conclusion:

Protecting the rights and ensuring the fair treatment of gig workers in India requires comprehensive and well-enforced measures. Social security, legal recognition, improved working conditions, access to justice, training, and enhanced digital infrastructure are crucial steps toward a fairer gig economy. The government’s ongoing efforts and new initiatives must continue to evolve to meet the needs of this growing segment of the workforce, ensuring their well-being and financial security.

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