Mumbai, Dec 29: India’s gig economy, one of the fastest-growing segments of the labour market, is at an important inflection point, according to a new report by Primus Partners, “Unlocking the Future: Finding a Path for 23.5 Million Indian Youth to Transition Beyond the Gig Economy.” The report examines current income patterns, skill progression, and social protection gaps, and outlines pathways to strengthen long-term workforce mobility and productivity.

While digital platforms have enabled large-scale employment absorption, the study finds that income growth remains modest for a significant share of workers. Over 60 percent of surveyed gig workers work full-time hours, with average monthly earnings at around ₹22,500. Income increases are largely linked to longer working hours rather than structured skill advancement, indicating the need for clearer progression frameworks.

The report also notes that early entry into gig work, often immediately after school, can shape long-term career trajectories. Without formal skilling pathways, many workers continue in similar roles through their mid-20s, even as financial responsibilities increase. Addressing this gap, the report argues, will be critical to ensuring the gig economy contributes meaningfully to productivity growth and income security.

In addition, the study highlights gaps in social protection, with 31 percent of gig workers lacking access to insurance, pension, or savings-linked benefits. Evidence from the survey suggests that workers with access to training and basic protections report greater financial stability and higher earning potential, reinforcing the case for targeted interventions.

Nilaya Varma, Co-Founder & CEO, Primus Partners, said “The gig economy has created scale and flexibility in India’s labour market. The next phase must focus on enabling skill development, income progression, and mobility so that gig work becomes a stepping stone to more sustainable livelihoods.”

There is a clear opportunity to strengthen the gig ecosystem through structured skilling pathways, portable benefits, and transition mechanisms into higher-value roles. Aligning platforms, policymakers, and industry around these priorities can unlock stronger workforce outcomes over the next decade.