Question : Social Security to Workers

(a)whether it is a fact that millions of labourers in the unorganized sector like app based cab drivers, home delivery riders are not covered under the social security scheme of his Ministry;
(b)if so, whether to give social security cover like ESIC facilities, pension scheme etc. the Government proposes to amend laws or by notification propose to give these facilities to the organized workers in these sectors; and
(c)if so, the details thereof and the time by which such facilities are likely to be provided to these workers?

MINISTER OF STATE (IC) FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
(SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)

(a) to (c): In order to provide social security benefits to the workers in the unorganised sector, (including app based cab drivers, home delivery riders, as per their eligibility) Government enacted the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008. This Act stipulates formulation of suitable welfare schemes for unorganised workers on matters relating to: (i) life and disability cover, (ii) health and maternity benefits, (iii) old age protection and (iv) any other benefit as may be determined by the Central Government. Life and disability cover is provided through Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
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and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) to the unorganised workers depending upon their eligibility. The health and maternity benefits are addressed through Ayushman Bharat scheme.
For old age protection in the form of monthly pension, Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan Yojana which is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme for providing monthly minimum assured pension of Rs. 3000/- on attaining the age of 60 years. The unorganised workers in the age group of 18-40 years whose monthly income is Rs.15,000/- or less and not a member of EPFO/ESIC/NPS can join the scheme. Under the scheme, 50% monthly contribution is payable by the beneficiary and equal matching contribution is paid by the Central Government.
A draft code on Social Security 2019 has been prepared by amalgamating simplifying and rationalizing the relevant provisions of the existing Nine Central Labour Acts relating to social security for organised and unorganised sector workers.

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