Digital platform workers’ access to employee protection and social security

Platform workers in India describe their access to protection and social security in these terms –

44% of Indian workers reported that platforms provide health insurance and 20% reported platform-provided accidental insurance.
97% of workers reported having awareness about one or more government schemes, and three-fourths of them were able to receive at least some benefits from them.

What are the benefits and protections offered to workers by the platforms?

Are employee protection benefits well advertised by platforms and easy to access for digital platform workers?

What are the challenges digital platform workers face in accessing these benefits?

Access to benefits is comparatively higher in the food delivery and home service sector, however, a very small share of ridesharing workers receive any support from platforms. Challenges in accessing platform protections, however, are high across sectors.

“

I had an accident, but I bore all the hospital charges myself. Apparently there is an insurance mechanism from the platform. At first, I thought I had to arrange it myself. Later, I found out that if you go to a designated hospital, you’re covered under insurance. You get free medication and treatment. But there is no one to explain all of these things to us.”

- Manav, food delivery worker,

Delhi, India

How many digital platform workers are aware of government social security schemes and receive benefits?

97% of Indian workers reported being aware of government schemes, with a large proportion familiar with food security schemes including access to subsidised food grains through the Public Distribution System. Close to 75% workers reporting awareness also received benefits, especially around food security and health.

“

If you talk specifically for us (platform workers in the ridesharing sector), there are no specific benefits—I’m telling you honestly. Now that fuel has become more expensive, there are no proper rates for taxi drivers. Like I said earlier, if anything happens to a driver on the road, I am not aware of any scheme which would support us.”

- Akhilesh, ridesharing worker,