Topic
gig economy
India Proposes Universal Provident Fund for Gig Workers and Self-Employed
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is working on a universal provident fund scheme for unorganised sector workers, gig workers, and the self-employed. The scheme would allow flexible contributions, tax benefits similar to EPFO, and a systematic withdrawal plan. If implemented, it could be one of the most significant expansions of India's social security framework.
Algorithmic Management in India's Gig Economy: The Case for a Hybrid Human-AI Governance Model
A new study by Kumar, Omir, Narayanan, and Krishnan examines the impact of AI and digital technologies on India's blue-collar gig economy. Through interviews with 16 gig workers and 21 stakeholders, the research uncovers opaque algorithmic systems that produce inequitable outcomes and fail to reward additional labor proportionately. The authors propose an 'Algorithmic-Human Manager' framework that combines technological efficiency with human accountability.