Discuss the structural features of India’s gig economy and the factors shaping its growth. Analyse its contribution to India’s economic development. Suggest suitable measures to address the vulnerabilities and insecurities faced by gig workers.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment
Q5. Discuss the structural features of India’s gig economy and the factors shaping its growth. Analyse its contribution to India’s economic development. Suggest suitable measures to address the vulnerabilities and insecurities faced by gig workers. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question India’s gig and platform economy is expanding rapidly, projected to reach 23.5 million workers by 2029-30 (NITI Aayog), raising both opportunities for growth and concerns about labour precarity. Key demand of the question The question requires examining the structural features and growth drivers of India’s gig economy, assessing its contribution to economic development, and suggesting measures to mitigate vulnerabilities of workers within this system. Structure of the Answer Introduction Define gig economy briefly and set context with recent data or example showing its scale and importance in India’s labour market. Body Structural features and growth factors: Mention digital platform dependence, informality, demographics, consumerism, and technology. Contribution to economic development: Cover employment generation, productivity in logistics, start-up ecosystem growth, and consumer welfare. Measures for vulnerabilities: Suggest social security expansion, regulatory reforms, minimum income assurance, skilling programmes, and worker representation. Conclusion End with a futuristic note on balancing efficiency and equity in the gig economy to ensure it strengthens inclusive and sustainable development.
Why the question
India’s gig and platform economy is expanding rapidly, projected to reach 23.5 million workers by 2029-30 (NITI Aayog), raising both opportunities for growth and concerns about labour precarity.
Key demand of the question
The question requires examining the structural features and growth drivers of India’s gig economy, assessing its contribution to economic development, and suggesting measures to mitigate vulnerabilities of workers within this system.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Define gig economy briefly and set context with recent data or example showing its scale and importance in India’s labour market.
• Structural features and growth factors: Mention digital platform dependence, informality, demographics, consumerism, and technology.
• Contribution to economic development: Cover employment generation, productivity in logistics, start-up ecosystem growth, and consumer welfare.
• Measures for vulnerabilities: Suggest social security expansion, regulatory reforms, minimum income assurance, skilling programmes, and worker representation.
Conclusion End with a futuristic note on balancing efficiency and equity in the gig economy to ensure it strengthens inclusive and sustainable development.