- Tamil Nadu government announces ₹20,000 subsidy for gig workers to buy e-scooters.
- Insurance scheme introduced for financial protection of 1.5 lakh gig workers.
- Plans for lounges in Chennai and Coimbatore to support gig workers during extreme temperatures.
₹20,000 Subsidy Scheme for Gig Workers in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu aims to support gig workers through a new initiative that offers a subsidy of ₹20,000 for purchasing electric scooters (e-scooters). Announced by Finance Minister Thangam Thenarasu during the presentation of the state budget for the financial year 2025-26, this scheme focuses on supporting thousands of workers employed by e-commerce platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, Zepto, and Blinkit. These workers often rely on e-scooters to complete deliveries efficiently.
Eligibility for the Subsidy
To qualify for the subsidy, workers must be registered with a state welfare organization. This initiative aims to benefit approximately 2,000 internet-based service workers, providing them the opportunity to own a new e-scooter, which is essential for their daily work.
Benefits of the E-Scooter Subsidy
- Enhanced mobility for gig workers, allowing them to perform deliveries more efficiently.
- Reduction in the financial burden associated with purchasing a vehicle.
- Promotion of environmentally friendly transportation options through electric vehicles.
Insurance Scheme for Gig Workers
Alongside the subsidy for e-scooters, Tamil Nadu is launching an insurance scheme aimed at providing financial protection to around 1.5 lakh gig workers. This scheme will help protect workers and their families in cases of accidental death or disability, ensuring that they have a safety net during unforeseen circumstances.
State Support Facilities for Gig Workers
The government also plans to build lounges in major cities like Chennai and Coimbatore to offer comfortable spaces for gig workers, especially during the scorching summer months that can see temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. These facilities will enhance their working conditions and provide necessary relief.
KC Gopikumar, representing the Tamil Nadu Food and Allied Products Delivery Workers Union, expressed support for this initiative while advocating for extending benefits to more workers and improving overall working conditions, including paid leaves.
Cost of E-Scooters
For workers considering this subsidy, it is worth noting that e-scooters from brands like Ola start at approximately ₹79,999, while models from Ather begin at ₹99,999.
As the government unveils more details about these welfare initiatives, it reflects a growing recognition of the importance and contributions of gig workers to the economy.