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Paper short abstract:

Digital platforms have transformed gig work in India, altering employment patterns and demographics while enhancing the economy. In this workshop, I aim to provide a thorough understanding of the evolving gig economy and its implications for India's workforce and overall economic landscape.

Paper long abstract:

Technology has significantly changed the organization of work and employment relationships, leading to developments that would have seemed unimaginable just a decade ago. The rise of digital platforms has not only created new types of work but also transformed how workers discover job opportunities. Digital platforms have significantly transformed work in India, positioning the country as a key player in the gig economy. Platforms like Uber, Swiggy, Zomato, and Freelancer offer flexible employment models, connecting independent workers to various tasks in sectors such as transportation, food delivery, e-commerce, and freelance services. While gig work offers benefits like flexible hours and improved work-life balance, it also presents challenges. Workers face job insecurity, lack of social protections, and exclusion from labor rights, as platforms often classify them as independent contractors.

Additionally, the labor market is becoming polarized. Urban workers may access higher-paying gigs, while rural and lower-skilled workers often earn less and work under precarious conditions. The Indian government is working on regulations to balance flexibility and worker rights, including social security schemes and formal recognition of gig workers.

In summary, this study highlights the role of various digital platforms that provide a path to gig workers and how they contribute to the economy of the country. By understanding the role of digital platforms in shaping gig work, this study contributes to the broader discourse on the future of work and the evolving nature of labor in the digital age.

Keywords: Gig workers, Economy, Digital Platforms, Employment, India , Online Labor Market.