In a significant policy move, the government has proposed a 90-day work rule for gig workers, seeking to formally recognise platform-based workers and extend social security benefits to them. The proposal marks an important step in regulating India’s fast-growing gig economy, which employs millions across delivery, ride-hailing, logistics, and on-demand services.
The rule is designed to bring clarity around eligibility for benefits while balancing flexibility for both workers and platforms.
What the 90-Day Work Rule Proposes
Under the proposed framework, gig workers who complete at least 90 days of work on a digital platform within a defined period would become eligible for certain government-backed social security benefits. These may include insurance coverage, health benefits, and welfare schemes notified under labour codes.
The 90-day threshold is intended to distinguish active gig workers from casual or occasional users of platforms.
Why the Government Is Introducing the Rule
Government of India aims to address long-standing concerns about the lack of formal protection for gig and platform workers. Despite contributing significantly to the economy, most gig workers operate outside traditional employer-employee frameworks, leaving them without safety nets.
The proposed rule seeks to create a minimum participation benchmark to ensure benefits reach workers who depend meaningfully on gig work for income.
Impact on Gig Workers
If implemented, the 90-day work rule for gig workers could bring greater income security and access to welfare benefits. Workers who consistently log in and complete assignments would gain formal recognition, potentially improving their financial resilience during illness, accidents, or income disruptions.
However, some workers worry that rigid thresholds could exclude those with irregular work patterns or seasonal availability.
What It Means for Platforms
For gig platforms, the proposal may increase compliance and reporting requirements. Platforms would need to track worker activity more closely and share data with authorities to determine eligibility.
While this could raise operational costs, it may also bring regulatory certainty and reduce future legal disputes over worker classification.
Industry and Worker Reactions
Worker unions and labour groups have broadly welcomed the move, calling it a long-overdue step toward dignity and protection for gig workers. At the same time, they are urging flexibility in how the 90-day requirement is calculated.
Industry bodies are expected to seek clarity on implementation timelines, cost-sharing mechanisms, and data privacy safeguards.
Part of Broader Labour Reforms
The proposal fits into India’s broader effort to modernise labour laws and adapt them to new forms of work. Gig and platform workers have been explicitly recognised under recent labour codes, but operational rules are still being finalised.
The 90-day rule could become a foundational element in defining rights and responsibilities in the platform economy.
Challenges in Implementation
Enforcing the rule will require robust digital infrastructure, coordination between platforms and regulators, and clear definitions of what counts as a “work day.” There are also concerns about potential manipulation, such as reduced task allocation to keep workers below thresholds.
Ensuring fairness and transparency will be critical for the policy’s success.
What Lies Ahead
The proposal is expected to undergo consultations with stakeholders, including worker groups, platforms, and state governments. Based on feedback, the final framework may be refined before notification.
Once implemented, the rule could serve as a model for other countries grappling with gig economy regulation.
Conclusion
The move where the government proposes a 90-day work rule for gig workers signals a decisive shift toward formalising and protecting platform-based labour in India. While challenges remain, the proposal reflects growing recognition that the gig economy is no longer peripheral—it is central to modern employment.
If executed thoughtfully, the rule could strike a balance between flexibility and security, reshaping the future of gig work in the country.
