40% gig workers earn less than ₹15,000 per month:Economic Survey recommends fixing minimum earnings; suggests paying for waiting period to delivery agents

The Economic Survey presented in Parliament on January 29 expressed concern about the gig economy. According to the survey, about 40% of gig workers in India – including food delivery, quick commerce and other platform workers – earn less than 15,000 per month. The report recommends that the government should establish ‘minimum earnings’ for gig workers based on per hour or per task. Additionally, the survey suggests providing payment for waiting time between work assignments. Income fluctuation biggest challenge, difficulty in getting loans The Economic Survey states that due to lack of fixed income, gig workers face difficulties in obtaining bank loans or accessing other financial services. The government believes that policies should enable people to choose gig work voluntarily rather than out of compulsion. Algorithm increases work pressure, risk of burnout The survey also criticizes platforms that distribute work through algorithms. These algorithms determine who gets how much work, how performance is measured, and how much earnings will be. Due to this control, workers are experiencing increased work pressure. They are becoming victims of fatigue and stress. Workers increased by 55% in 4 years, number reached 12 million (1.2 crore) The gig workforce is growing very rapidly in the country. In fiscal year 2021, the number of gig workers was 7.7 million (77 lakh), which has increased by 55% to reach 12 million (1.2 crore) in fiscal year 2025. Currently, their share in total workforce is more than 2%. It is estimated that by 2029-30, gig work’s share in total non-agricultural sector jobs will be 6.7%. Companies advised to invest in training and assets The report suggests that delivery companies and other platforms should invest in training their workers and assets (like vehicles or other necessary equipment). Often due to lack of money and resources, these workers are unable to move towards skilled jobs. Will contribute ₹2.35 lakh crore to GDP In the coming time, gig economy will be a major part of the country’s economy. By 2030, its contribution to India’s GDP is expected to be around ₹2.35 lakh crore. Recently, workers from platforms like Zomato, Swiggy had also protested for better wages and working conditions. In view of this, these survey recommendations are being considered important.