Swift Growth of Gig Workforce in India, let's explore it further

Main Findings & Predictions of Research

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Around 3 million employees were involved in platform work through 11 leading companies in 2020.

By 2030, it is anticipated to hit 23 million, which will account for 7% of the non-agricultural workforce, and is expected to more than double to 62 million workers by 2047.

Under optimistic growth projections, it could create as many as 90.8 million jobs, but economic and regulatory uncertainties might restrict growth to 32.5 million.

Sectoral Growth: Originally focused on ride-hailing and food distribution, gig work has broadened into healthcare, education, creative industries, and professional consulting due to the swift emergence of app-driven services and changing work preferences.

Obstacles and Regulatory Deficiencies

Absence of Social Security: Gig workers frequently function without health benefits, insurance, or retirement plans.

Extended Working Hours and Anxiety: Uncontrolled work hours, unpredictable schedules, and substantial workloads result in stress and health safety concerns.

Lack of Grievance Resolution Systems: Employees who voice concerns or report unfair actions frequently encounter backlash, such as having their IDs blocked.

Regulatory Factors Emphasized in Research

Worker Rights & Unionization: The research advocates for legal acknowledgment of gig workers, encompassing their right to organize and bargain collectively.

Clarity in task assignment algorithms is essential for equitable pay distribution and enhanced working conditions.

Classification and Legal Protections: Nations such as the UK, Canada, Spain, and France officially distinguish between employees and independent contractors, guaranteeing rights to labor protections and social security benefits.

India requires well-defined classification standards to tackle worker vulnerabilities.

Equitable Salaries & Algorithmic Transparency: The research suggests measures to:

Secure basic income assurances

Manage work hours

Enhance clarity in gig work tasks.

Improve complaint resolution processes.

National Registry for Gig Workers: A legally mandated registry (i.e. National Platform Worker Registry), overseen by both central and state authorities, could facilitate easier access to social security for gig workers.

Additional Initiatives & Policies

Social Security Code, 2020: It seeks to give gig and platform workers access to social security benefits.

In order to provide health insurance, pension plans, and accident coverage, it suggests establishing a social security fund that would be funded by contributions from aggregators.

Training & Skill Development: To improve employability, programs that upskill gig workers in subjects like digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and specialised trades are being promoted.