Great news for delivery staff! Karnataka gives social security measures for gig workers
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah introduces insurance coverage for delivery boys, emphasizing social security. Construction workers will receive subsidies. Healthcare facilities will be enhanced with investments in ESI hospitals, trauma centers, disease diagnosis centres, and AYUSH divisions.
In a significant move to prioritize the welfare of the working class, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has introduced insurance coverage for delivery boys and emphasized the need for social security. The announcement aims to create a labour-friendly environment and acknowledges the invaluable contributions made by the working class towards the state's progress.
Delivery boys, who tirelessly serve as gig workers for platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, Amazon, and Dunzo, will now receive comprehensive insurance coverage. Recognizing their efforts, especially during peak hours and challenging weather conditions, the government has pledged a total insurance coverage of 4 lakhs rupees.
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This coverage includes 2 lakhs for life insurance and an equal amount for accidental insurance. Importantly, the entire insurance premium will be borne by the government, ensuring that the working class is safeguarded and protected.
Apart from them, the construction workers will be provided with subsidies and benefits to the registered beneficiaries. The workers, who are unregistered will be avail benefits after they register themselves under the Construction workers welfare board.
The Department of Factories, Boilers, Industrial Safety and Health will be provided online to the stakeholders un a timely and appropriate manner.
To improve healthcare facilities, the government has allocated funds for the development of ESI (Employee State Insurance) hospitals. With a budget of 85 crores, these hospitals will be equipped with 35 ICU/MICU beds, enhancing critical care capabilities.
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Furthermore, six ESIC hospitals will receive investments of Rs 13 crore, while 25 dialysis units will be set up at a cost of Rs 5 crore. Two hospitals will establish level-2 trauma centres with a budget of Rs 24 crore, and modular operation theatres will be installed in four hospitals, amounting to Rs 8 crores.
The government's commitment to healthcare also includes the upgradation of disease diagnosis centres, with a planned expenditure of 35 crores. Additionally, AYUSH divisions encompassing Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Yoga centres will be established in all ESI hospitals, with an allotted budget of 3 crores.