SOCIAL SECURITY CODE
Road ministry proposes a simplified Rent-a-Cab scheme 2026; to replace the 1989 scheme
The proposed draft Rent-a-Cab Scheme 2026, which comes into force from January 2027, reduces the minimum fleet requirement to 5 compared to 50 mandated earlier, extends its coverage to even rental cars with or without drivers and provides for online licensing, time-bound approvals, stringent safety, insurance and operational requirements and formal grievance redressal mechanism.
Are authorities losing control as youth protests leverage technology to bypass shutdowns?
Youth-led protests around the world have increasingly relied on digital tools to organize and communicate. Authorities find it challenging to respond effectively to these protests, as traditional methods such as internet shutdowns are less effective. The recent demonstrations in New Delhi highlighted the use of Bluetooth-based messaging and VPNs for coordination. Governments may need to consider more proportional responses to avoid further radicalization of protest movements.
They wear black, hide their faces and vanish into crowds: The mysterious movement from the 1980s unsettling Europe
Masked protesters known as the Black Bloc utilize a collective identity to evade police identification during demonstrations. This tactic has escalated violence and conflicts during protests across various European countries. Authorities struggle to address this phenomenon due to the absence of a formal organizational structure. While some view these methods as legitimate political expression, others believe they undermine peaceful movements.
Fake US officials, forged court orders and gold pick-ups: How a Hyderabad call centre targeted nearly 2 million citizens and stole Rs 261 crore
The Enforcement Directorate has uncovered a fake call centre syndicate that allegedly defrauded US citizens of millions. Investigators arrested seven individuals involved in this international money laundering operation. The syndicate impersonated US federal officials and pressured victims to pay money through various channels. Seized evidence includes forged documents and the personal information of numerous US nationals. The investigation continues to identify additional participants and trace the flow of illegal funds.
How to identify pure gold: 5 important tips for buyers during the festive season
During the festive season, it is essential for buyers to ensure the gold they purchase meets purity standards. They can use the BIS Care app to verify the HUID of jewellery. Checking for the three hallmark marks ensures authenticity and quality before making a purchase. Buyers should also verify the jeweller's BIS registration details before finalizing a transaction.
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.
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.
Kaspersky flags QR code payment scams as a key cyber risk for Indians travelling to Indonesia
As more Indian tourists move to Indonesia, Kaspersky's cybersecurity experts are sounding the alarm on rising online threats. They point out that travellers should be particularly careful about things like fake QR codes and phishing attacks, which are becoming more common. It's crucial for tourists to stay vigilant to protect themselves from these digital dangers.
Centre sets up social security board to frame welfare schemes for gig workers
In a significant move, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has initiated the National Social Security Board, designed to improve welfare for unorganised and gig economy workers. This board will advise on the rollout and supervision of important social security programs. Scheduled to meet three times annually, it will also manage policy discussions and oversee the financial aspects of the Social Security Code.
Amitabh Kant pitches for development model with rural communities as producers, innovators
Kant also stressed the need to transform rural India into centres of economic activity, innovation and entrepreneurship rather than limiting it to welfare delivery.
Modi calls Opposition ‘Avrodh Paksh’, raises questions over ‘secret’ meetings abroad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Opposition of obstructing national progress and attempting to divide the country, dubbing it "Avrodh Paksh" instead of "Virodh Paksh". Addressing Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations in Gujarat, he also flagged infiltration, demographic changes and border security as key national priorities.
France moves to make rioters pay through family welfare benefit
France's Senate has approved a law to hold families accountable for damages caused by riots and unrest. This legislation allows authorities to recover compensation from family benefits like housing aid and allowances. Critics argue that the bill may disproportionately affect vulnerable families and discourage peaceful protests. Similar accountability measures are being considered in other European countries amid concerns over riots.
Binance hit by $6.3 billion crypto hack: Here’s what you need to know
Binance has reported a substantial security breach resulting in estimated losses of $6.3 billion. The breach was linked to a compromised laptop of a DevOps engineer facilitating unauthorized transactions. Global cryptocurrency firms have responded by freezing assets totaling nearly $2.4 billion. Additionally, Binance stated that user funds remain safe due to its Secure Asset Fund for Users.
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.
AI-powered cyberattacks siphon ₹300 crore from small NBFCs in two months
Recent cyberattacks have inflicted an estimated loss of ₹300 crore on Indian NBFC, with around 150 fraud cases reported. Focus has shifted towards identifying Chinese hacking platforms and AI toolkit involvement in these incidents. Exploiting operational weaknesses, these cybercriminals persistently launch their attacks, leading to urgent calls for NBFCs to bolster their cybersecurity frameworks to fend off further threats and safeguard their operations.
EPS pension hike: Can EPFO increase minimum monthly pension from Rs 1,000 at its proposed November 19 meeting?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation may discuss increasing the minimum monthly pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme. A proposal to raise the pension from Rs 1,000 is anticipated during the next Central Board of Trustees meeting.
Dunkin’ promo code today: How to get a free iced coffee on October 21
Dunkin’ is giving away 1 million free iced coffees as part of its Halloween promotion featuring Spidey D. Find out the promo code, how to claim the free coffee through the Dunkin’ app and when the reward expires.
Load More
