The Gig Economy in India
How Big Is India's Gig Workforce?
A NITI Aayog report estimated 7.7 million gig workers in 2020-21, projected to reach 23.5 million by 2029-30.
Counting gig workers is difficult, but estimates show rapid growth.
The estimate
NITI Aayog estimated about 7.7 million gig workers in 2020-21, around 1.5 per cent of the workforce.
The projection
It projected growth to about 23.5 million by 2029-30.
Measurement problems
Workers may use multiple apps, work part-time or switch, so counts differ.
Who works
Many are young men in cities, though the mix is widening.
Many apps, one worker
A driver may be registered on three apps, counted once in a survey but appearing in three company databases.
Trusting any single number
Estimates depend on definitions.
Key takeaways
- An estimate said 7.7 million in 2020-21.
- Growth is projected sharply.
- Counting is hard.
- Many work part-time.
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