Growth of the Gig and Platform Workforce in India

The gig and platform workforce in India is projected to expand significantly, driven by technological advancements and changing labor market preferences. According to a study by the VV Giri National Labour Institute, this workforce is expected to reach nearly 62 million by 2047, constituting about 15% of the non-agricultural workforce.

Study Methodology

• The study utilized estimates from a 2022 NITI Aayog report and applied the exponential smoothing Error, Trend, Seasonality model for forecasts.
• This model emphasizes recent observations, predicting a compounding growth pattern for gig workers.

Sector Expansion and Projections

• Initially concentrated in ride-sharing and food delivery, gig work has expanded into healthcare, education, creative services, and consulting.
• Projected growth to 23 million gig workers by 2030, 7% of the non-agricultural workforce, as per NITI Aayog's 2020 report.
• Under certain conditions, growth could be limited to 32.5 million by 2047.
• Aspirational projections suggest the potential for 90.8 million gig jobs.

Challenges and Recommendations

• Workers' Rights: The study advocates for the recognition of gig workers' rights to collective bargaining and unionization.
• Classification Clarity: Calls for clear differentiation between employees and independent contractors, crucial for accessing labor laws and social security.
• Minimum Income and Working Conditions: Emphasizes ensuring a minimum income, fair working hours, and algorithmic accountability.
• Skills and Safety: Suggests worker empowerment through training and upskilling, along with mandatory occupational health and safety standards.
• Registry Proposal: Proposes a statutory national registry for platform and gig workers to aid in accessing social security benefits.