The formal sector (also called the organized sector) in an economy refers to employment where workers enjoy clearly defined work conditions, consistent wages, and legal protection. It includes jobs in registered businesses, corporations, and government organizations.
Let us evaluate the given options:
(A) Job security: A key characteristic of the formal sector. Employees usually receive appointment letters and have legal safeguards.
(B) Social security benefits: These include provident fund, pension, health insurance, maternity leave, and other government-mandated benefits. Common in the formal sector.
(C) Irregular payments: This is not a feature of the formal sector. In fact, formal jobs are known for regular and timely payment of wages and salaries.
(D) Fixed working hours: The formal sector typically follows standardized work hours, often as per labour laws.
Hence, Irregular payments is the incorrect feature, making option (C) the right answer.