Mumbai’s Gig Economy: Growth and Challenges in 2024

Mumbai, India’s financial and cultural capital, is witnessing a transformative shift in its
labor landscape. The rise of the gig economy—characterized by short-term, flexible, and
often freelance work—is reshaping how the city’s workforce operates. From tech
professionals to delivery personnel, gig workers are becoming an integral part of
Mumbai’s economic fabric.

The Surge in Gig Employment

024, Mumbai saw a significant uptick in gig employment, particularly during the festive season. Over 1.2 million gig or freelance roles were posted, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. This surge was driven by the expansion of e-commerce, advancements in technology, and a growing preference for flexible, on-demand work arrangements post-pandemic .​The Economic Times+2ETRetail.com+2India Retailing+2ETRetail.com+2India Retailing+2The Economic Times+2

Key sectors contributing to this growth included logistics, retail, and customer support. Logistics roles alone accounted for 35% of all gig jobs, followed by retail and e-commerce at 28%, and customer support at 15% . To attract talent in a competitive market, companies offered higher pay for gig roles during this period. Field technicians could earn up to ₹35,000 monthly, while customer support executives and delivery personnel earned between ₹18,000 and ₹28,000 .​The Economic Times+3

White-Collar Gig Jobs on the Rise

The gig economy in Mumbai isn’t limited to blue-collar jobs. There has been a notable increase in white-collar gig roles, particularly in the IT sector. In March 2024, demand for white-collar gig jobs in IT saw a 46% growth, indicating a shift towards flexible, project-based work arrangements among skilled professionals .​The New Indian Express

Challenges Faced by Gig Workers

Despite the growth, gig workers in Mumbai face several challenges. A significant concern is the lack of social security and regulations. A study found that over 43% of gig workers earn less than ₹500 a day after expenses, with many working over 10 hours daily . Additionally, more than half of gig workers report difficulties in finding new job opportunities and feel that their work environment hinders their ability to upskill .​The HinduThe Times of India

The Road Ahead

As Mumbai continues to embrace the gig economy, there is a pressing need for policies
that protect gig workers’ rights and ensure fair compensation. The growth of the gig
economy presents an opportunity to redefine traditional employment models, offering
flexibility and autonomy to workers while also addressing the challenges they face. With
the right support and regulations, Mumbai can lead the way in creating a sustainable
and inclusive gig economy.