An Unfair Pay Gap: The Fight for Wage Equality in India's Gig Economy
Equal work, unequal wages - a persistent issue that continues to haunt India's festive hiring scene.
Despite the surge in seasonal hiring, the battle for wage parity between gig workers and permanent employees rages on. A recent report has shed light on this ongoing disparity, revealing that nearly half of the workforce (47%) believes gig workers are paid less than their permanent counterparts.
The report, conducted by Genius HRTech, surveyed 1,550 professionals across various industries during September 2025. It found that when it comes to hourly pay, the gap is significant. A staggering 11% of respondents reported earnings up to 10% less, while 23% revealed a wage disparity of 10-25%, and an alarming 13% stated the gap exceeded a massive 25%.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Despite these findings, employers justify the pay gap by emphasizing flexibility. Over 56% cited the absence of long-term benefits as the primary reason, followed by 24% who pointed to short-term employment duration. Only a mere 3% confirmed equal pay between gig and permanent workers.
And this is the part most people miss...
The report also highlighted the workforce's sentiment towards pay parity. A whopping 73% of respondents believe festive gig workers should receive the same hourly pay as permanent employees for identical work. This overwhelming support for equal pay underscores the need for change.
From the employer's perspective, the focus seems to be on flexibility and short-term gains. However, is this fair to the gig workers who contribute significantly to India's festive economy? Shouldn't the principle of 'equal pay for equal work' apply to all, regardless of contract type?
Genius HRTech's Chairman and Managing Director, R P Yadav, emphasizes the importance of fair compensation, skill-building, and transparency to create a motivated and future-ready gig workforce. He believes this is key to powering India's seasonal demand effectively.
So, what can be done to bridge this gap? The report suggests that non-monetary benefits, such as skill development (43%) and flexible shifts (31%), could improve gig workers' satisfaction. But is it enough to address the underlying issue of wage inequality?
This report raises important questions about the future of work and the rights of gig workers. As we navigate the complexities of the gig economy, it's crucial to consider the impact on those who power our seasonal demands.
What are your thoughts on this ongoing debate? Should we strive for equal pay for all, regardless of contract type? Share your opinions in the comments below!
