A study on Gig Economy with Special Reference to Platformbased Workers in Alappuzha Municipality

A study on Gig Economy with Special Reference to Platform-based Workers in Alappuzha Municipality Dr. Mahima S1 Ms. Lessa Benadict2 Abstract The gig economy represents a major transformation in the modern labour market, characterized by the growing prevalence of short-term, flexible, and task-based employment arrangements rather than traditional full-time jobs. The rapid development of digital platforms has significantly facilitated this shift by connecting workers with clients or companies seeking specific services on a temporary or on-demand basis. Through these platforms, individuals engage in various forms of gig work such as transportation services, food delivery, freelance professional services, and other types of digital labour. Despite its increasing popularity and opportunities for flexible employment, the gig economy also raises several economic and social concerns. Gig workers are typically classified as independent contractors rather than formal employees, which often excludes them from benefits such as job security, health insurance, pension schemes, and paid leave. Additionally, earnings in gig work tend to be uncertain and may fluctuate based on demand, platform algorithms, and competition among workers, creating challenges for economic stability and worker protection. In this context, this study examines reason for selecting job, the working conditions, income patterns, and perception towards platform-based gig work. Keywords: Gig economy, Gig workers, Flexible Employment, 1. Assistant Professor, Sree Narayana College Chenganur, Kerala, India. 2. I MA Behavioural Economics and Data Science, Sree Narayana College Chenganur, Kerala, India.