Gig and platform workers will now need to remain engaged with an aggregator for a minimum of 90 days in a financial year to qualify for social security benefits. Those working across multiple aggregators must complete at least 120 days of engagement. This proposal has been outlined in the draft rules issued for public feedback by the Union labour ministry.
The notification, dated December 30, 2025, was released just a day ahead of the New Year’s Eve strike announced by gig and platform workers, who are calling for higher payouts and improved working conditions.
Social security benefits for gig workers: Key points from the draft rules
According to the draft framework, gig and platform workers must complete at least 90 days of engagement with an aggregator within a financial year to become eligible for social security benefits introduced by the Centre. In cases where a worker is associated with more than one aggregator, this minimum threshold rises to 120 days.
The rules clarify that a worker is considered engaged on any calendar day they earn income from work performed for an aggregator, irrespective of how much they earn on that day.
The document further explains how engagement days are calculated in simple terms. A gig or platform worker will be counted as engaged for one full day if they earn any income from an aggregator on that particular day. If a worker operates across multiple aggregators, the total number of engagement days will be calculated cumulatively. In situations where a worker completes tasks for three different aggregators on the same day, that single calendar day will be recorded as three separate days of engagement.
The draft also specifies that eligible gig and platform workers include those engaged directly by an aggregator as well as those working through associate companies, holding companies, subsidiary companies, limited liability partnerships, or even third-party entities.
Registration and digital identity for unorganised workers
The rules make it mandatory for unorganised workers to register on the designated central portal. Once registered, every eligible worker will be issued a digital identity card containing their photograph and other details as prescribed by the Central Government.
The labour ministry has already initiated registrations through the e-Shram portal, which functions as the national database for unorganised workers. Registration on this platform enables workers to gain formal recognition and access various social security schemes.
In addition, registered unorganised workers will be required to periodically update information such as their address, occupation, mobile number, skills, or any other details specified by the authorities. The draft rules warn that failure to keep these details up to date could lead to workers losing eligibility for social security benefits.
