India, Nov. 21 -- The government has formally implemented India's four new Labour Codes, replacing 29 fragmented labour laws, in what is seen as a pivotal moment for gig workers in the world's fourth largest economy.

Essentially, the likes of Swiggy Ltd., Zomato, Blinkit and Zepto can no longer view their delivery partners as independent contractors. They now have a responsibility towards their social security.

India's new labour codes, particularly the Code on Social Security, 2020, finally defines who a gig worker and who employs them.

This lays the foundation for extending welfare benefits to an estimated 40 crore workers in the unorganised sector.

The biggest and most immediate obligation is social security contribution for gig wo...