Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
1. Gig economy comprises short-term
Gig economy comprises short-term, flexible, platform-mediated work — ride-hailing, delivery and freelance tasks — with payment per task rather than fixed salaries.
2. India’s gig workforce is projected to
India’s gig workforce is projected to reach about 2.35 crore by 2029-30, with women forming a significant share of platform work.
3. Gig work empowers women through flexible
Gig work empowers women through flexible hours, enabling income generation alongside household and caregiving responsibilities.
4. Platforms overcome mobility and safety constraints
Platforms overcome mobility and safety constraints, letting women earn from home or nearby localities without long commutes.
5. Digital skills and app literacy strengthen
Digital skills and app literacy strengthen women’s financial independence, confidence and bargaining power within households.
6. Gig work often remains informal —
Gig work often remains informal — low pay, no social security, irregular income and limited career progression.
7. Women gig workers additionally face the
Women gig workers additionally face the digital divide, skill gaps, harassment and safety concerns on the job.
8. The Social Security Code 2020 and
The Social Security Code 2020 and state welfare boards extend protections to gig workers, but implementation remains weak.
9. Skilling
Skilling, portable social security, safe workplaces and fair algorithm-based pay are needed to sustain women’s empowerment through gig work.
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