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Informist, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026

--EconSurvey:Policy must address concerns over gig workers' fees, protection 

--EconSurvey: Gig-economy policy must allow workers to exercise choice 

NEW DELHI – The Economic Survey for 2025-26 (Apr-Mar), tabled in the Parliament Thursday, has batted for a gig-economy policy that would provide workers "real choice", minimum per-hour earnings, or per-task earnings. 

"Platforms have become essential gig-market infrastructure for finding workers and work. This concentration of power raises concerns over fees, algorithms, and worker protections," the survey said. "Policy should address this through competition rules, data access, and algorithmic transparency, while reorganising the social contract so that gig work benefits workers more fairly."

The gig economy, which includes delivery, ridesharing, and freelancing, has seen structural growth since the COVID-19 pandemic. The sector had around 12 million workers in FY25, up from 7.7 million in FY21, according to the Indian Staffing Federation. This sector now accounts for over 2% of India's total workforce, and the growth of gig workers outpaces overall employment. Non-agricultural gigs are projected to constitute 6.7% of the workforce by FY30, contributing INR 2.35 trillion to GDP.

A gig-economy policy can set minimum per-hour or per-task earnings, including for waiting time, encourage formal employment, and raise incomes for low and medium-skilled gig workers, the survey said. Gig workers are often classified as freelancers, independent contractors, or platform partners, making it difficult to apply conventional labour-market definitions and regulations, the survey said. "When classified this way, gig workers lack employment benefits such as social security, paid leave, minimum hours, and health coverage, resulting in poor job security and lower incomes."

There is a growing focus on expanding social security, income protection, and grievance redressal mechanisms for gig and platform workers to safeguard their well-being, the survey said. "Amid these developments, the effective implementation of Labour Codes would play a key role in supporting formal employment and improving security for women and gig workers."

Another challenge for gig workers is limited access to credit and a lack of assets needed to move into better gigs. Many gig workers are unable to upgrade from low and medium-skilled gigs because they lack tools such as a motorcycle, car, or specialised equipment, the survey said. "Encouraging platforms and employers to co-invest in assets and training could help workers progress into more secure, higher-quality jobs." The survey said the market should be encouraged to offer more flexible, agile financial products that take into account the income patterns of gig workers.  End

Reported by Shubham Rana

Edited by Saji George Titus

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