Gig Economy Boom: 6.7% of India's Workforce by 2030, But Challenges Remain

• India's gig economy is projected to comprise 6.7% of the non-agricultural workforce by 2029–30, contributing ₹2.35 lakh crore to GDP.
• The number of gig workers surged by 55% from 7.7 million in FY21 to 12 million in FY25, driven by smartphone adoption and digital payments.
• Despite rapid growth, gig workers face significant challenges including income volatility, limited access to credit, and inadequate social security.
• Protests by delivery and ride-hailing workers highlight concerns over declining payouts, opaque incentive structures, and algorithmic control.
• The Economic Survey 2026 calls for effective implementation of social security codes, algorithmic transparency, and policies to ensure gig work is a choice, not a necessity.

Why It Matters: India's gig economy is rapidly expanding but needs robust policy to ensure worker security and dignity.