Code on Social Security, 2020
Context:
The Government has introduced the Code on Social Security, 2020.
It consolidates nine existing labour laws into a single comprehensive framework to ensure universal social protection.
About the Code:
It represents a significant reform aimed at extending social security benefits to all employees and workers,
It covers both the organised and unorganised sectors.
It seeks to simplify compliance, enhance efficiency, and expand access to benefits (like life insurance, health, and maternity benefits)
Key Features:
Universal Coverage:
It extends EPFO and ESIC coverage nationwide to include more establishments and workers.
Gig & Platform Workers:
For the first time, these workers are formally recognised. ‘
The Code mandates social security schemes for them
It also establishes a Social Security Fund for their welfare.
Women-Centric Provisions:
It strengthens benefits such as 26 weeks of maternity leave, crèche facilities, and options for work-from-home.
It provides for specific schemes for self-employed and unorganised workers to ensure their protection.
It promotes digital records, decriminalizes minor offences, and introduces a transparent Inspector-cum-facilitator system.