1. Introduction
Platform Workers are an important part of India’s digital economy. They provide services through online platforms and usually work outside the traditional employer-employee relationship. The Code on Social Security, 2020 recognises gig workers and platform workers and provides a framework for social security measures. The Code came into force on 21 November 2025.
2. Who Are Platform Workers?
The Code on Social Security gives specific recognition to platform-based work. A platform worker is a person engaged in work through a platform-based arrangement outside the traditional employer-employee relationship. The law also provides for registration of eligible workers and access to applicable social security schemes.
3. Social Security Benefits
The framework allows the Central Government to create social security schemes for gig and platform workers. These schemes may cover life and disability protection, accident insurance, health and maternity benefits, old-age protection, and other prescribed benefits.
4. Registration and e-Shram
Registration is an important part of the system. The Social Security Code provides for registration of eligible gig and platform workers. The Government’s e-Shram portal also includes gig and platform workers in its national database of unorganised workers.
5. Aggregator Responsibilities
Aggregators have specific responsibilities under the social security framework. The Code provides for contributions from specified categories of aggregators. The contribution rate is to be notified within the statutory range of 1% to 2% of annual turnover, subject to a ceiling of 5% of the amount paid or payable to gig and platform workers.
6. Platform Workers and Compliance Records
Businesses should maintain accurate records relating to workers and applicable social security obligations. Important records may include worker details, payment records, contribution calculations, filings, and supporting documents. Proper recordkeeping can also help businesses respond to compliance reviews.
7. Reporting and Contributions
Platforms covered by the applicable framework should review how contributions are calculated and reported. They should also track filing dates and supporting documents. The exact requirements can depend on the applicable rules, schemes, and category of aggregator.
8. Key Compliance Areas
Businesses should review worker registration, aggregator status, contribution calculations, records, reporting, and internal policies. They should also monitor updates from the Ministry of Labour and Employment as subordinate rules and social security measures develop.
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9. 2026 Legal Developments
The Code on Social Security was enforced from 21 November 2025. In January 2026, the Ministry of Labour and Employment issued guidance on provisions covering gig and platform workers. The Government has also continued developing the e-Shram system, including a platform-worker registration facility.
10. How Derecho Consulting Can Help
Platform Workers compliance requires coordination between legal requirements, worker records, social security obligations, and reporting processes. Derecho Consulting can support businesses with compliance reviews, documentation, policy updates, contribution assessments, and regulatory monitoring.
Conclusion
The legal framework for Platform Workers has expanded through the Code on Social Security and related government initiatives. Businesses operating digital platforms should review worker registration, applicable aggregator obligations, contribution requirements, records, and reporting processes. Regular reviews can help businesses keep their practices aligned with the current framework.