The term “gig work” comes from “gig,” used by jazz musicians in the 1920s for short-term performances. It gained prominence in the 2000s-2010s with the rise of the gig economy, driven by platforms like Uber and Airbnb, enabling flexible, short-term jobs over traditional employment.

By 2025, the gig economy has added 9–11 million workers in India, with AI-driven platforms enhancing efficiency and specialized gig workers commanding higher rates globally.

India’s gig economy lacks job security and social protections, leaving workers without benefits like minimum wage, healthcare, or paid leave.