Jharkhand has taken a significant step towards regulating and safeguarding platform-based gig workers with the approval of the Jharkhand Platform Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2025. Governor Santosh Gangwar has granted assent to the Bill, enabling it to transition into an Act once officially gazetted. This legislation marks the first instance of gig workers being integrated into a formal welfare framework in the state.
The primary aim of this law is to provide social security, welfare, and economic protection to gig and platform-based workers. The government emphasizes that the Act strives to unify all gig workers on a common platform, facilitating better oversight of their working conditions and enhancing their access to benefits. The law encompasses individuals working through digital platforms and aggregators across various sectors, including delivery, transport, and on-demand services.
A notable feature of the Act is the creation of a Gig Workers’ Welfare Board. The labour department minister will assume the role of ex-officio chairperson, supported by the departmental secretary and other appointed members for a three-year term. This board will oversee the registration of gig workers and service providers, issue identification cards, and manage welfare schemes. All aggregators operating within the state must register with the board.
The Act stipulates minimum wages for gig workers, determined by the type and duration of work performed. It also enforces social security measures, which include medical insurance and additional welfare benefits. Aggregators who fail to comply with the Act's provisions may incur penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh. This law aims to ensure accountability among service providers while protecting workers’ rights and income security.
The approval of this Act positions Jharkhand among the states proactively regulating the rapidly evolving gig economy. By formalizing registration, welfare, and wage protections, the law is anticipated to enhance working conditions for thousands of gig workers. Moreover, it signifies a broader policy transition towards recognizing gig work as a distinct employment category that necessitates statutory safeguards.
Q1. What is the Jharkhand Platform Based Gig Workers Bill 2025?
Answer: The Bill aims to regulate and protect gig workers in Jharkhand, providing them with social security, minimum wages, and a formal welfare framework.
Q2. Who oversees the Gig Workers’ Welfare Board in Jharkhand?
Answer: The labour department minister serves as the ex-officio chairperson, supported by other members for the board's operational management.
Q3. What penalties do violators of the Act face?
Answer: Aggregators who contravene the provisions of the Act can be fined up to Rs 10 lakh, ensuring accountability in the gig economy.
Q4. How does the Act affect minimum wages for gig workers?
Answer: The Act mandates minimum wage regulations based on the type and duration of work, ensuring fair compensation for gig workers.
Q5. What types of workers are covered under the Act?
Answer: The legislation covers workers engaged through digital platforms and aggregators in sectors like delivery, transport, and on-demand services.
Question 1: What is the primary aim of the Jharkhand Platform Based Gig Workers Bill 2025?
A) To provide free training for gig workers
B) To regulate and protect gig workers through social security
C) To promote digital platforms exclusively
D) To eliminate gig work altogether
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who is the chairperson of the Gig Workers’ Welfare Board in Jharkhand?
A) Chief Minister
B) Labour department minister
C) Secretary of the Finance Department
D) Governor of Jharkhand
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the maximum penalty for aggregators violating the Act?
A) Rs 1 lakh
B) Rs 5 lakh
C) Rs 10 lakh
D) Rs 50 lakh
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Which of the following sectors does the Act cover?
A) Agriculture only
B) Manufacturing
C) Delivery and transport
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What type of insurance is included in the welfare provisions of the Act?
A) Life insurance
B) Medical insurance
C) Travel insurance
D) Automotive insurance
Correct Answer: B
Kutos : AI Assistant!
