India prepares landmark social security for gig workers

Business Jun 25, 2025

Big news for gig workers: the government is rolling out a social security scheme for gig and platform workers under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).
Soon, nearly one crore delivery partners, drivers, and others in the gig economy will be eligible for ₹5 lakh of annual health coverage—something that's already helping over 50 crore citizens in India.

Launch expected by late 2025

To sign up, more than 20 lakh gig workers have already registered on the e-Shram portal.
Platform companies now need to register both themselves and their workers too.
The scheme aims to bring more security and stability to jobs that often lack benefits.
Launch is expected by late 2025 after some labor law changes, and there's even talk of pension benefits down the line.