Decent Work, Inclusion, and Growth in Gig Workers of India: The Viksit Bharat Vision

The rapid growth of the gig economy has significantly transformed India’s labour market in recent years. Driven by digital platforms, smartphone penetration, and urban consumption patterns, gig work has expanded across sectors such as ride-hailing, food delivery, logistics, online freelancing, and domestic services. As India moves toward the vision of Vikshit Bharat 2047, understanding the role of gig workers is crucial for achieving inclusive growth and the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 8(Decent Work and Economic Growth). This study focuses on the Indian gig workforce by analysing twenty key research papers, policy reports, and institutional studies. Major contributions from organizations such as the International Labour Organisation, NITI Aayog, and the V.V.Giri National Labour Institute provide insights into labour precarity, algorithmic management, digital platforms, and evolving labour regulations. Findings indicate that the gig economy has expanded employment opportunities, improved labour market flexibility, and enabled participation for youth, migrants, and women in urban areas. However, gig workers also face several challenges including income instability, absence of formal contracts, limited social security coverage, algorithmic control, and weak collective representation. Despite the recognition of gig workers under the Social Security Code(2020), implementation gaps remain significant. To ensure sustainable labour market development, policy measures such as portable social security, minimum earnings protection, skill development, algorithmic transparency, and stronger grievance mechanisms are essential. If supported by effective regulation and inclusive policies, the gig economy can contribute to employment generation, digital transformation, and equitable economic growth in India.