Gig Economy in India: Transforming Employment Dynamics in the Digital Age

Abstract

The gig economy, facilitated by digital platforms, has emerged as a revolutionary trend in modern entrepreneurship, reshaping traditional employment and business models. The gig economy has redefined work relationships and employment structures globally. The gig model offers autonomy and flexible working arrangements but often comes with unwarrantable income, lack of benefits, and regulatory ambiguities. The gig economy in India has emerged as a significant driver of employment, characterized by flexible, task-based jobs mediated through digital platforms. With platforms like Zomato, Ola, and Urban Company gaining prominence, gig work offers unique opportunities and challenges for Indian workers. It highlights the dual nature of gig work—providing employment opportunities in a country with high unemployment rates but also presenting issues like income insecurity, lack of benefits, and regulatory gaps.