Gig workers are an alternative source of skills and talent that have proven themselves invaluable in this ever accelerating age of work. Their contributions are crucial especially during a time where the global talent pool is shrinking and organizations are struggling to find the appropriate candidates for highly desirable positions.
Unfortunately, despite their usefulness, gig workers will often find themselves bereft of the many benefits offered by companies to regular employees. In recent years however, there are signs that this is beginning to change. The Indian government for example, has recently announced that it is considering widening the definition of employment to include gig and platform workers. Even Anganwadi (rural childcare center) workers may benefit from the new reforms under the ‘National Employment Policy’.
The revised definition is expected to address the widespread issue of disguised employment under which workers are denied benefits that they rightfully deserve as their work is not covered in India’s current definition of employment.
Under the new policy, gig workers can expect to see a rise in employers’ liability, especially in terms of wages, annual leave, and other benefits.
Recently, the gig workers of India filed a petition with the Supreme Court arguing that they are employees, and should accordingly be entitled to the benefits offered by companies to regular employees.
