In a historic move aimed at improving the working conditions and welfare of gig and platform workers, the Delhi Government, on Friday, has announced the formation of a dedicated welfare board and a budget allocation of Rs 10 crore to support new social and economic security initiatives. The announcement came during the first-ever official meeting between gig workers, platform companies, and government representatives, chaired by Labour Minister Shri Kapil Mishra at the Delhi Secretariat. Representatives from major platforms including Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, Uber, UrbanClap, and BigBasket joined the session, which served as a direct forum for workers to raise their long-standing concerns. Many gig workers present at the meeting shared their everyday struggles — from long working hours and low pay to a lack of health benefits and the absence of an effective system to address grievances. The workers expressed that despite being a critical part of the citys functioning, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, their contributions often go unnoticed and unsupported. Kapil Mishra assured workers that the Delhi government is taking concrete steps to change this. We are committed to the well-being of gig and platform workers. A welfare board will be set up, and schemes will be launched to address their social, economic, and medical needs, said Mishra. We have also earmarked Rs 10 crore in the state budget for these initiatives. He further emphasized that platform companies and aggregators will be key partners in this initiative and assured them that they would not face any undue interference or harassment from government authorities. Several companies also used the opportunity to outline the efforts they have already undertaken to support gig workers. These include health insurance, accidental coverage, upskilling programs, and scholarships for the children of workers. While these programs offer some relief, workers said there is a need for a coordinated and structured support system backed by the government. According to NITI Aayog, Indias gig workforce is currently estimated at one crore and is expected to reach 2.4 crore by 2029–30. Delhi alone is home to an estimated five lakh gig and platform workers, highlighting the significance of this workforce to the citys economic structure. Officials said the board will soon begin consultations with workers and companies to design schemes tailored to their needs.

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