GS4 · UPSC Mains

The rise of the gig economy greatly benefits the new generation of employees, as it provides them with new job opportunities and multiple sources of income. It is a common trend for fresh graduates who move out of smaller towns and cities and take up gig works to make ends meet till they land a permanent job. Organizations are also opting for temporary professionals over training their own employees for a specific skill set. The NITI Aayog estimates that India has 7.7 million gig workers, which it expects will swell to 23.5 million by 2029-30. Being a gig worker in a delivery company, Rahul earns around Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000 per month depending upon the number of orders received. Also, the work gives him flexibility in scheduling and structuring his days. However, he faces unprecedented struggles due to long working hours, lack of job security, lack of availability of gigs and mainstream jobs, inhuman treatment by the employers and lack of legal protection or rights. But, he is compelled to work, as he is the sole earning member of his family of 4 members. Finding a sense of identity has become difficult as the frequently asked question 'what do you do for a living?' remains to be one of the toughest to answer. It is very difficult for him to get financial assistance, such as loans and mortgages, as he has no stable income to show nor any business to his name, just a skill which is being used every now and then by some employer. Getting health insurance is yet another pain with no insurance companies extending benefits to him due to the nature of his job. In short, Rahul and his family have almost no recognition in the society even for bare minimum amenities, which are reserved for the 'working class'. The abuse of the gig workers is further aggravated by the venture capitalists who would rather pour their money into organizations which are devoid of the employee liability and do not have the overhead expenses of managing a full-time workforce, making it difficult for the regular employers to compete. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) What can be done to resolve the problems faced by gig workers like Rahul? (Answer in 250 words)

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