Gig & Contract Worker Inclusion: Mandatory EPF Coverage Expands

In a historic expansion of India's social security net, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has mandated that EPF coverage now extends into the informal workforce.

This new mandate legally absorbs platform gig workers, contract labor, and part-time staff into the EPFO framework. Technology platforms, aggregator apps, and traditional businesses utilizing contract workers are now legally required to register and remit 12% provident fund contributions for these non-traditional workers.

This closes a long-standing regulatory loophole and ensures that millions of previously excluded informal workers will now receive guaranteed retirement savings, life insurance (EDLI), and EPS pension benefits.

Stay updated with all EPFO rule changes via our EPFO guide portal.