Q&A on minimum wages, health cover, grievance redressal, and how to claim benefits
India’s gig economy has reached a tipping point in 2025. With millions of workers engaged through platforms—delivering food, driving taxis, managing digital tasks—the Labour Code updates introduced this year mark a landmark moment for worker protections and benefits.
This FAQ answers the most pressing questions gig workers and employers have about the new legal entitlements, covering topics like minimum wages, health coverage, social security, and how to claim your benefits
Q1: Are gig workers officially recognized under the new Labour Codes?
Yes. The 2025 Labour Code update formally recognizes gig and platform workers as distinct labor categories, alongside permanent, contractual, and unorganized workers. This recognition ensures that platform-based workers are eligible for tailored protections under India’s new Social Security Code.
Q2: Do gig workers now get a minimum wage?
Absolutely. As per the Minimum Wages Code, platform workers are now covered under sector-specific wage floors. This means workers in services like logistics, e-commerce delivery, transport, and home-based tasks are entitled to:
- Fair hourly or task-based wages
- Clarity on platform commissions and payouts
- Prevention of arbitrary pay cuts or algorithmic wage drops
- Access to payment dispute mechanisms
Wages must also reflect the state’s cost of living benchmarks.
Q3: What health insurance is available for gig workers?
Workers registered under e-Shram or through platform partners are eligible for health coverage via:
- Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) – ₹5 lakh annual cover
- State-sponsored plans for platform workers
- Accident insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
Marketplace Company also helps eligible workers enroll through our onboarding portal and support desks.
Q4: How can gig workers raise complaints or seek grievance redressal?
Under the 2025 reforms, platforms are mandated to establish grievance redressal officers and provide workers with accessible complaint channels. Workers can now:
- Submit complaints through in-app support
- Approach dedicated state labour portals
- File reports to centralized Gig Worker Welfare Boards
Marketplace also offers an internal grievance helpline for associated workers, helping streamline benefit disputes or payment issues.
Q5: Can gig workers access pension or retirement benefits?
Yes. The updated Social Security Code now includes National Pension Scheme (NPS) enrollment for gig workers, especially those registered on e-Shram or via employer platforms. Contributions can be:
- Voluntary by the worker
- Co-contributed by partner platforms or state schemes
Workers can check pension status and make contributions through their Marketplace dashboard.
Q6: How are platforms held accountable under the new laws?
Platforms are now jointly responsible for gig worker rights. This includes:
- Disclosing algorithm-based pricing
- Publishing periodic impact reports on worker welfare
- Participating in state audits
- Setting up internal labour compliance cells
At Marketplace Company, we’re actively helping platforms meet these standards via policy frameworks and educational support.
Q7: What is the process to claim a benefit under these schemes?
- Register on e-Shram or with your platform’s compliance portal.
- Ensure your Aadhaar is linked with bank accounts and scheme databases.
- Use the official portals or app-based dashboards to submit documents and claims.
- Receive status updates, helpline access, or grievance redress through Marketplace’s support forum.
Q8: Where can gig workers get help navigating these changes?
You can contact our team directly via the Marketplace website or email for guidance. We offer:
- One-on-one onboarding support
- Help with health insurance and pension registration
- Translation of government policies into easy-to-understand guides
- Feedback channels for worker issues
Q9: Can I follow updates on these reforms online?
Absolutely. For the latest announcements, case studies, and compliance resources:
- Visit the Marketplace website
- Follow us on LinkedIn for expert articles and worker stories
- Engage with our content on Instagram for quick tips and updates
- Bookmark our Careers and Resource Hub
- Or connect directly through our Contact Page
Conclusion: A New Era for Worker Rights
India’s 2025 Labour Code update marks a new chapter for digital workers. The formal inclusion of gig workers into minimum wage laws, health coverage, pension schemes, and redressal forums is a win for worker dignity and economic fairness.
However, awareness is key. Workers must engage, register, and speak up to ensure these rights are truly realized. Platforms and policymakers must also remain transparent and accountable.
For more insights, visit our official blog, follow Marketplace Company on LinkedIn and Instagram, or explore our onboarding resources.