There are only estimates of India’s gig workforce, and this lack of data is one of the reasons why gig workers are largely bereft of social security in a little-regulated gig sector, say experts. https://thewire.in/labour/indias-gig-workers-remain-undocumented-unprotected
India’s definition of a gig worker is loose, and refers to a “person who performs work or participates in a work arrangement and earns from such activities outside of traditional employer-employee relationship”.
Private companies, such as Urban Company and Uber, do not publish data on how many partners they work with.
According to different reports, the gig economy is expanding in the country. As per the Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India, the country’s gig economy is growing at a compounded annual growth rate of 17% and is projected to surpass $455 billion by 2024.
The lack of public availability of data on gig workers impacts marginalised sections the most, experts say.
Without specific data, it is challenging to implement tailored policies and programmes for specific groups like women, individuals with disabilities, or non-heterosexual people, says Bansal. This includes measures such as maternity benefits, period leaves and other targeted provisions.
A survey conducted by the employment consultancy TeamLease in 2019 showed evidence of a 8-10% gap in earnings between men and women working as delivery executives for digital platforms in India.
by Aman Singh and Udisha Srivastav, Indiaspend
21/06/2024