Section 89: National Employment Statistics and Monitoring System

Overview

Section 89 of the Code on Social Security, 2020, doesn’t directly deal with a specific social security benefit like Provident Fund or ESI. Instead, it establishes a framework for collecting and analyzing employment data across India. This data will then *inform* the effective implementation and targeting of various social security schemes, including those related to Provident Fund, ESI, gratuity, maternity benefits, and unemployment allowances. It’s a foundational element for evidence-based policymaking in the social security landscape.

Who is Covered?

• This section covers *all* sectors of employment – organized, unorganized, public, and private. This includes traditional employment, as well as the growing gig and platform economy.
• There are no specific eligibility conditions related to length of service or wage limits for *being counted* within the system. The system aims to capture data on all employed individuals. However, eligibility for specific social security benefits will still be governed by the rules of those individual schemes.

Benefits and Contributions

• This section doesn’t provide a direct benefit to employees. The benefit is indirect – improved social security policies and more effective targeting of existing schemes based on accurate employment data.
• There are no direct contribution responsibilities arising from this section. However, employers will be required to provide data as part of the system (through returns, as detailed below). The government will bear the cost of establishing and maintaining the National Employment Statistics and Monitoring System.

Procedure and Compliance

The Central Government will develop and maintain the National Employment Statistics and Monitoring System. Key steps for compliance include:

1. Data Integration: The system will integrate data from existing employment exchanges.
2. Private Sector Returns: Employers in the private sector will be required to submit regular returns providing employment-related information. The specific format and frequency of these returns will be determined by the government.
3. Gig & Platform Worker Information: The system will collect data on workers engaged in the gig and platform economy. The method for collecting this data is still being developed.
4. Real-time Analytics: The system will utilize real-time analytics to track employment trends and identify areas needing attention.

Failure to comply with data submission requirements may result in penalties, as prescribed under the Code.

Practical Examples

• Example 1: The government notices a significant increase in unemployment in a particular region through the National Employment Statistics and Monitoring System. This prompts them to launch a targeted skill development program in that region to address the issue.
• Example 2: An employer consistently fails to submit required employment data. The Labour Department issues a notice of non-compliance, and after repeated warnings, imposes a financial penalty on the employer.

Disclaimer

This article is for basic understanding of the Code on Social Security, 2020, and Section 89 specifically. It should not be treated as legal advice. For specific legal guidance, please consult with a qualified legal professional.