PLATFORM WORKERS BENEFITS
Telangana implements gig worker rules, mandates minimum pay, social security benefits
The Telangana government has launched the Telangana Platform-Based Gig Workers Rules, which establish rights for gig workers. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy introduced the legislation during a ceremony with Rahul Gandhi in Hyderabad. The new rules include provisions for social security benefits, minimum remuneration, and protection against arbitrary account deactivation. Shaik Salauddin from the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union emphasized the need for effective implementation of these rights.
BJP's Jagdambika Pal dismisses Owaisi-Azad tie-up as "alliance of convenience"; SP says it will benefit BJP
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal has dismissed the Samajik Parivartan Morcha formed by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Azad Samaj Party-Kanshiram president Chandrashekhar Azad as an "alliance of convenience" ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Samajwadi Party leaders also criticised the alliance, alleging that it could benefit the BJP by splitting votes from the INDIA bloc.
Connecticut restored 34 acres of damaged salt marsh in 2022; two years later, native grasses were thriving, and shorebirds were nesting on newly built mounds
A major salt marsh restoration project at Great Meadows Marsh in Connecticut is showing promising results for coastal wildlife and biodiversity. After a $4.65 million rehabilitation effort, the 34-acre wetland has seen the return of endangered saltmarsh sparrows and the growth of native marsh plants. The project highlights how wetland restoration, coastal conservation and habitat recovery can protect biodiversity, reduce flood risks and create healthier ecosystems amid rising sea levels.
Qcomm’s Diwali boost; Energy startups attract funds
Happy Wednesday! Quick commerce powered a strong festive season for D2C brands. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
China's Singles Day shopping festival puts AI selling power to the test
If you are looking for evidence of how enthusiastically China is adopting AI, look no further than the country's premier month-long Singles Day shopping festival.
Ode to a compassionate algorithm: Philanthropists are backing AI for public good
From Flipkart’s Binny Bansal to Chrys Capital’s Ashish Dhawan and Karishma Sanghvi of Sun Pharma, a growing number of entrepreneurs are writing cheques for AI that can diagnose diseases, empower teachers, modernise courts and strengthen public services, betting that the technology can create social returns as significant as commercial ones.
Canva layoffs 2026: CEO Melanie Perkins plans to give away 80% of her billion-dollar fortune as company announces 22% job reductions
Canva CEO: Canva CEO Melanie Perkins has drawn attention amid the company's decision to cut 1,271 jobs, affecting 22% of its workforce. Perkins has also pledged to donate more than 80% of her wealth to charity. The billionaire co-founder, who built Canva from a small start-up into a $42 billion company, signed The Giving Pledge with her husband Cliff Obrecht in 2021.
Lenskart, Nykaa, PhysicsWallah see Q2 profits surge
New-age companies Nykaa, Lenskart, and PhysicsWallah reported strong numbers for the September quarter. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5.
U.S. and Japanese Companies Struggle with Different Parts of AI Adoption—and Offer Different Lessons for Making It Work
Companies in both the U.S. and Japan are struggling to deploy AI, but often in very different ways. In the U.S., deployment is wide but shallow, meaning companies struggle to create real value with AI. In Japan, deployment has moved slowly, but where it has happened, it’s often deep and fruitful. Understanding what’s happening in both contexts offers important lessons for companies trying to develop an AI strategy and demonstrate ROI on their AI investments.
Gig workers may get social security benefits through 2% transaction levy on businesses
The government is considering implementing a 2% transaction-based levy on aggregators to support social security for gig workers. This levy will fund benefits such as insurance, health, and maternity support for over 12 million workers. There is a consensus that this approach ensures fairness among different types of aggregators. The new scheme is expected to be launched in 2027, requiring gig workers to meet specific work criteria.
ETtech Explainer: Food delivery, ride-hailing firms differ on gig worker welfare levy calculation
Food delivery and quick-commerce companies such as Zomato and Swiggy are seeking a levy based on the value of transactions facilitated through their platforms, while cab and bike-taxi aggregators such as Uber and Rapido want it to be calculated on their own turnover rather than the total value of rides facilitated.
Premji's deeptech bets; Razorpay gets IPO nod
Happy Thursday! Premji Invest is stepping up its bets on defence and aerospace manufacturing.This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
Democratic wins would shift Congress' trade debate but fall short of US tariff rollbacks
If Democrats gain control of Congress, they will challenge many of Trump's tariffs through legislation and oversight. The party aims to repeal tariffs impacting communities on both sides of the Canadian border. However, Trump's veto power will hinder their efforts to pass significant reforms. Executive actions on trade may become more prominent under the Trump administration's agenda. Overall, the evolving dynamics in Congress will shape future trade discussions and policies.
Mansukh Mandaviya rolls out EPFO services on WhatsApp, starts auto-settlement of small inoperative accounts
Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched EPFO services through WhatsApp for easier access. Subscribers can check their PF balance and transaction history conveniently using this platform. The automatic settlement for inoperative EPF accounts was also introduced, streamlining the process for beneficiaries. In total, around one lakh accounts will benefit from this initiative. The EPFO's commitment to evolve and focus on worker-centric innovations was emphasized during the celebration.
Gig workers get a seat at the table as Centre notifies social security boards
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has notified the National Social Security Board for unorganised workers and gig workers. This board will enable the implementation of welfare schemes designed to address social security gaps. It will include representatives from government, companies, and civil society to ensure diverse input. The board is expected to meet regularly to discuss policies affecting these workers.
Who guards India’s digital gatekeepers?
India has built effective digital systems that facilitate money transfer and identity verification across its diverse population. However, there are ongoing challenges regarding accountability and transparency in government digital platforms. Many argue that mechanisms like competition law may not be suitable for all government services.
Israel votes today: What’s at stake for India as Bibi faces tough fight
Israel's elections on October 27 will significantly affect the country's relationship with India. More than just political outcomes, defense and trade agreements will be critical in bilateral ties. India aims to maintain cooperation regardless of the election's outcomes or the new leadership in Israel. The balance between Israel and Iran remains essential for India's regional strategy and economic interests.
Lula da Silva: A metalworker who rose from poverty to reclaim Brazil's presidency
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a fourth, non-consecutive term as Brazil’s president, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro in a fiercely contested election. The victory strengthens the left’s position in Latin America amid Donald Trump’s growing influence, marking another remarkable comeback for the former metalworker who overcame corruption convictions and imprisonment.
Ariana Grande’s charity gives $125,000 to support LGBTQ+ rights, mental health and immigrant communities
Ariana Grande has established The Brighter Days Ahead Foundation to aid vulnerable communities in need of support. The foundation focuses on four funding streams, including emergency assistance and mental health services. Recent contributions have included a $125,000 grant to Trans Lifeline to help provide direct assistance to transgender individuals. Grande aims to encourage other donors to contribute as well, improving support for smaller nonprofits.
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