New Delhi: Reliance General Insurance, a private general insurance company, has joined hands with Swiggy, a food delivery company, to offer customized health insurance, personal accident insurance, and mobile phone insurance to Swiggy’s 3 lakh delivery partners. This collaboration will enable Swiggy’s delivery partners to have access to a comprehensive insurance policy that will protect them against unforeseen medical expenses and accidents. The insurance will be provided by Gallagher Insurance Brokers, an insurance brokerage firm.
The insurance benefits include a Group Mediclaim policy that offers OPD treatment, medical hospitalization, maternity cover, etc., as per the eligibility criteria of the master policy. Under the Group Personal Accident policy, delivery partners will be covered in the event of accidental death and accidental permanent partial disablement. Furthermore, in the case of accidental temporary total disablement, the insured partner will receive a loss of pay benefit during recovery.
Reliance General Insurance’s Chief Distribution Officer, Anand Singhi, stated that the partnership recognizes the growing significance of gig workers, who represent India’s fast-growing gig economy. He also said that the insurance coverage would provide financial protection to gig workers, increasing their propensity to avail of timely healthcare, which will contribute to the country’s long-term prosperity by paving the way for a healthier population.
This initiative is significant as it highlights the importance of insurance coverage for gig workers who are vulnerable to medical emergencies and accidents. The lack of adequate insurance coverage can lead to financial distress and impact the gig worker’s ability to earn a livelihood. By offering a comprehensive insurance policy to delivery partners, Swiggy and Reliance General Insurance have set an example for other companies to follow.
The ease of doing business is crucial for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as they form the backbone of India’s economy. Providing insurance coverage to gig workers is a step towards creating a more supportive environment for MSMEs. It will enhance the confidence of gig workers, enabling them to work without worrying about financial insecurity. This will contribute to the growth of the gig economy and ultimately benefit the larger economy.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Swiggy and Reliance General Insurance to offer insurance coverage to delivery partners is a commendable step towards providing financial protection to gig workers. The insurance coverage will enhance the ease of doing business for MSMEs and create a more supportive environment for the gig economy to thrive.
