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Exemplary Reports

Environmental and ESG Policy Consulting

I.Strengthening Water Security through Home Water Audits

Introduction

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India is facing an escalating water crisis, driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change. Despite receiving substantial rainfall in many regions, seasonal water scarcity persists due to geographical constraints and inefficient water management. This concept note focused on the idea of a structured water audit framework to optimize household water consumption, promote conservation technologies, and strengthen governance mechanisms for sustainable water management across India.

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Rationale

India holds only 4% of the world's freshwater resources but supports 18% of the global population. Over-extraction of groundwater, inefficient irrigation, and unchecked urban expansion contribute to water shortages. While national programs like Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Jal Jeevan Mission, and AMRUT have made progress, local-level interventions are essential for lasting impact. Given the diverse climatic and geographical conditions across the country, targeted strategies are required to ensure equitable and sustainable water use nationwide.

 

Objectives

  1.  Conduct household-level water audits to assess consumption patterns and identify wastage.

  2. Strengthen data-driven policymaking by analyzing existing water management gaps.

  3. Promote adoption of conservation technologies, such as sensor-based water alarms and rainwater harvesting.

  4. Foster behavioral change through awareness campaigns and community participation.

  5. Support government decision-making by providing policy recommendations for efficient water governance.

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Implementation Framework

Phase 1: Data Collection & Diagnostics

  1. Conduct structured water audits across residential and commercial units.

  2. Identify water consumption trends, inefficiencies, and sources of wastage.

  3. Engage with local communities to document challenges and practices.

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Phase 2: Policy Formulation & Intervention Design

  1. Analyze audit data to formulate evidence-based recommendations.

  2. Develop a framework for integrating smart water conservation tools.

  3. Engage with state authorities and urban planners for regulatory inputs.

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Phase 3: Pilot Implementation & Impact Assessment

  1. Implement targeted interventions in select urban and rural areas.

  2. Monitor efficiency improvements and behavioral shifts in water usage.

  3. Publish a policy brief outlining key takeaways and replication potential.

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Expected Outcomes

  1. Optimized household water consumption through behavioral interventions and technology adoption.

  2. Increased public awareness on sustainable water use and conservation measures.

  3. Enhanced water governance mechanisms with data-backed recommendations for policymakers.

  4. A scalable and replicable water audit model for application across different states in India.

 

Conclusion

This initiative aims to transform India's approach to water conservation by leveraging data, community engagement, and policy integration. The findings will contribute to a sustainable water management blueprint, ensuring long-term resource security and resilience against climate change. The framework can be adapted for broader application, reinforcing India's commitment to water sustainability.

Keywords: Water Security, Water Audit, Sustainable Water Management, Conservation Technologies, Behavioral Change, Policy Recommendations, Data-Driven Governance, Community Engagement, Urban & Rural Water Use, Climate Resilience

​Public Policy Consulting 

 

I. Strengthening the Rights and Welfare of Gig Workers

 

Introduction

The gig economy in India has witnessed substantial growth, with NITI Aayog estimating the number of gig workers at 77 lakh, projected to reach 2.35 crore by 2030. This rapid expansion has positioned gig workers as a crucial workforce segment, contributing significantly to the service economy. Many states have seen a notable increase in platform-based gig work, making it imperative for policymakers to address the unique challenges faced by this workforce.

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Political parties, including the BJP and Congress, have acknowledged gig workers’ contributions by incorporating them into their manifestos and outreach campaigns. However, despite their growing numbers, gig workers continue to grapple with wage disparity, financial vulnerabilities, and lack of social security coverage, necessitating policy interventions that ensure economic stability, social protection, and recognition of their rights.

 

Problem Statement:

Gig workers, particularly those engaged with platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Uber, and Ola, face significant economic and social challenges. The issues include:

 

1. Wage Disparity & Income Decline:

  • The average gig worker earns ₹18,611, which is lower than the urban salaried workforce (₹21,500-₹22,800).

  • Labour saturation in platform-based jobs has led to a decline in real monthly income from ₹13,500 in 2019 to ₹12,000 in 2022.

  • Increasing fuel expenses consume 37.5% of a gig worker’s income (up from 28.79% in 2019).

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2. Lack of Financial Security & Social Benefits:

  • 66% of gig workers do not save money, and only 8.8% save for retirement.

  • 73% of gig workers lack insurance, with 40% citing affordability as a key barrier.

  • Low participation in government schemes: Only 12.2% have Ayushman Bharat coverage, 7.1% are on e-Shram, and 4% contribute to the Atal Pension Yojana.

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3. Demographic Composition & Social Impact:

  • The average gig worker is a 29-year-old male, with 88% of first-time workers being students.

  • Caste-based data from Telangana suggests that over 80% of gig workers belong to SC, ST, and OBC communities.

  • Nearly 44% of gig workers are the sole breadwinners of their households.

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4. Lack of Legal & Institutional Frameworks:

  • The Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2023, is a state-led initiative, highlighting the need for similar policies in other states. Karnataka has introduced a dedicated legislation for gig workers.

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Analysis of Existing Policies & Challenges:

While some efforts have been made to address gig workers’ concerns, existing interventions remain fragmented and inadequate. The central government offers several schemes, but gig workers have limited awareness and access. Moreover, corporate policies often prioritize profit margins over fair wages and benefits, exacerbating their vulnerabilities.

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The Rajasthan Gig Workers Act sets a precedent with a ₹200 crore welfare fund, mandatory registration of gig workers and platforms, and a tripartite Gig Workers Welfare Board. However, similar models need to be adapted and implemented across other states with local modifications. Gig workers have emerged as a crucial political constituency, with parties increasingly addressing their concerns, offering services, making policy commitments, and incorporating their interests into manifestos. This growing attention underscores their rising significance in the political landscape.

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Plausible Solutions & Remedial Actions:

  • To improve the conditions of gig workers and integrate them into formal welfare structures, the following policy recommendations are proposed:

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1. Gig Workers Registration & Welfare Act:

  • Mandatory state registration of all gig workers upon platform onboarding.

  • Unique ID system applicable across platforms for tracking and benefit allocation.

  • Creation of a State Gig Workers Welfare Board with representation from gig workers, platforms, and the government.

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2. Enhanced Social Security Measures:

  • Universal access to health insurance (Ayushman Bharat), accidental insurance, and pension schemes (Atal Pension Yojana).

  • Shared contribution model between platforms, workers, and the state government.

  • Ration card coverage for gig workers to ensure food security.

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3. Financial Literacy & Support Programs:

  • Launch awareness camps to educate gig workers on available social security benefits and facilitate direct enrollment.

  • Provide financial planning assistance to encourage savings and retirement planning.

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4. Fair Wage Policies & Regulation of Work Conditions:

  • Establish a minimum guaranteed income threshold for gig workers.

  • Address fuel cost inflation by introducing subsidies or tax benefits.

  • Monitor platform fee structures to prevent wage suppression.

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5. Technology-Driven State Platform for Gig Workers:

  • Develop a state-managed mobile application to register and track gig workers.

  • Enable access to real-time earnings data, grievance redressal, and benefit claims.

  • Integrate the platform with central and state welfare schemes.

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6. Worker Representation in Decision-Making:

  • Ensure gig workers have a formal voice in policy discussions through advisory committees.

  • Encourage unionization and legal support mechanisms for collective bargaining.

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7. Grievance Redressal & Dispute Resolution Mechanisms:

  • Establish a state-level Ombudsman for gig workers.

  • Ensure fast-track dispute resolution between workers and platforms.

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Conclusion:

The exponential rise of gig work in India demands proactive governance interventions to secure the welfare and rights of platform-based workers. In the growing gig workforce environment of the country, a dedicated Gig Workers Registration and Welfare Act is the need of the hour. Ensuring universal registration, social security coverage, fair wages, and institutional representation will not only improve gig workers' livelihoods but also strengthen their trust in governance structures.

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By aligning government policies with gig workers' aspirations and implementing tailored welfare programs, the state can build an inclusive gig economy that fosters economic security, sustainable livelihoods, and long-term political engagement.

 

Keywords: Gig Economy, Platform-Based Work, Social Security, Fair Wages, Digital Economy, Rajasthan Model, Financial Inclusion, Policy Reform.

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