Platform work has created a new form of informalisation under the cover of technology. What steps are needed to ensure decent work in the gig economy?
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.
Q6. Platform work has created a new form of informalisation under the cover of technology. What steps are needed to ensure decent work in the gig economy? (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question Gig and platform work is expanding rapidly in India, but it is raising serious concerns about disguised informality, weak labour protections, and algorithm-driven precarity. The question tests understanding of labour reforms, decent work, and regulation of digital economies. Key Demand of the question The question first requires explaining how platform work reproduces informal sector vulnerabilities despite being technology-driven. It then asks what steps are required to ensure decent work outcomes for gig workers through legal, social security, and governance reforms. Structure of the Answer Introduction Start with lines linking gig economy growth with the paradox of “digital work but informal conditions”, using a credible reference like NITI Aayog’s gig worker projections. Body Explain how platform work creates new informalisation through task-based pay, unpaid waiting time, and risk transfer to workers. List steps needed for decent work such as minimum pay protection, operational social security under labour codes, algorithmic transparency, and grievance redressal. Conclusion End with a forward-looking solution framing: regulating gig work as a new labour category is essential for inclusive growth and dignity of labour.
Why the question
Gig and platform work is expanding rapidly in India, but it is raising serious concerns about disguised informality, weak labour protections, and algorithm-driven precarity. The question tests understanding of labour reforms, decent work, and regulation of digital economies.
Key Demand of the question
The question first requires explaining how platform work reproduces informal sector vulnerabilities despite being technology-driven. It then asks what steps are required to ensure decent work outcomes for gig workers through legal, social security, and governance reforms.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Start with lines linking gig economy growth with the paradox of “digital work but informal conditions”, using a credible reference like NITI Aayog’s gig worker projections.
• Explain how platform work creates new informalisation through task-based pay, unpaid waiting time, and risk transfer to workers.
• List steps needed for decent work such as minimum pay protection, operational social security under labour codes, algorithmic transparency, and grievance redressal.
Conclusion End with a forward-looking solution framing: regulating gig work as a new labour category is essential for inclusive growth and dignity of labour.