India’s Gig Internet Workforce to More Than Triple to 21 Million by 2030: Report

India’s gig economy is expanding at an extraordinary pace, playing a pivotal role in national employment generation. According to a new report by Redseer Strategy Consultants, the country currently counts over 60 lakh (6 million) monthly active gig workers across platforms like delivery, ride-hailing, and home services. This number is projected to more than triple, reaching between 1.7 crore and 2.1 crore (17 million to 21 million) by the year 2030.

The report estimates that the sector will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24% to 29% between 2025 and 2030. By the end of the decade, gig workers are expected to account for roughly 3% of India’s total workforce. With India requiring approximately 80 lakh new non-agricultural jobs annually, gig platforms are emerging as a primary job creation engine, capable of generating 51 lakh to 63 lakh income-generating opportunities every year.

A Vital Engine for Youth and First-Time Job Seekers
Gig platforms are increasingly serving as a launchpad for young professionals entering the job market for the first time. The report reveals that over 30% of gig workers are first-time entrants into the formal or semi-formal workforce.

Prior to onboarding on these internet platforms, 54% of workers were not in any salaried employment, with 37% starting their very first job through gig work. Rather than being just a temporary fix, platform work is providing crucial economic access to individuals who previously lacked formal employment options.

Average Earnings Across Gig Segments
While gig work serves as a secondary or flexible source of income for many, full-time engagement offers competitive earning potential. On average, a full-time gig worker in India earns ₹32,000 per month. However, average income varies significantly depending on the specific service sector:

Home Services: Professionals in this high-skill category command the highest monthly earnings, averaging between ₹70,000 and ₹80,000.
Ride-Hailing: Drivers operating on cab and auto aggregator platforms earn an average of ₹37,000 to ₹39,000 per month.
Delivery Partners: Workers delivering food, quick-commerce orders, and e-commerce packages earn between ₹22,000 and ₹23,000 monthly.