Title: Tamil Nadu Announces Special Welfare Board for Unorganized Gig Workers
Subtitle: Chief Minister M. K. Stalin takes initiative to protect the welfare of Ola, Uber, Zomato, and Swiggy workers
Chennai, Tamil Nadu – In a significant move to support the livelihoods of non-organised gig workers, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin declared the establishment of a separate welfare board. This board aims to safeguard the welfare of workers employed in gig economy platforms such as Ola, Uber, Zomato, and Swiggy. The announcement, made on Independence Day, highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring job security, accident insurance, and health coverage for these vulnerable workers.
The initiative has garnered immense appreciation from the workers themselves, who have expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Stalin. Representatives from Ola, Uber, Zomato, and Swiggy met with the Chief Minister to thank him for addressing their concerns and taking concrete steps towards protecting their well-being. Similarly, director Vasanthapalan and other film industry workers also met with Chief Minister Stalin to express their gratitude for his efforts.
The meeting between Chief Minister Stalin and the workers was shared on social media, where he explained the importance of securing the future of workers in the gig industry. In a post published in The Hindu Tamil Vektik newspaper, Chief Minister Stalin stated, “I am deeply moved by the appreciation and gratitude expressed by various parties for the announcement in my Liberation Day speech. The establishment of a separate welfare board for unorganized gig workers is a pivotal step in ensuring their welfare.”
Chief Minister Stalin also reflected on the significance of making this announcement during a time when the welfare of common people, including rickshaw pullers and slum dwellers, is being prioritized. He emphasized the legacy of artists who have championed the cause of the less privileged throughout history, indicating his dedication to carrying on their noble work.
This move by the Tamil Nadu government echoes the growing global recognition of gig workers and the need to address the unique challenges they face. With the establishment of a dedicated welfare board, Tamil Nadu is leading the way in ensuring that the gig economy provides fair and secure opportunities for workers across various sectors.
As the non-organised gig economy continues to grow, other state governments and countries may take inspiration from Tamil Nadu’s proactive approach to safeguard the rights and well-being of their gig workers. It is a significant step towards building a more inclusive and equitable economy.