Problems and Probable Solutions of Platform Based Gig Workers A Study with Reference to Platform-Based Gig Workers in Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The main purpose of conducting this research study is to identify and examine the problems faced by the platform-based gig workers and to offer suggestions that will eradicate these problems and will ensure welfare and well-being of the platform-based gig workers. For conducting the current study, the researcher has used descriptive and explanatory research designs. Data has been collected using the well-structured questionnaire and interview methods. The major problems identified were No employer-employee relation, Low and inconsistent earnings, Algorithmic management. These problems are negatively impacting the stress levels and welfare of the platform-based gig workers. To eradicate these problems both the government and platform-based companies need to make some structural changes in legislations and company policies respectively. The government has to bring platform-based gig workers in the purview of labor legislations in India. And should make legislations related to minimum living wage and provision of social security benefits for the platform-based gig workers. The platform-based companies have to remove or reduce the scope of algorithmic management and impart more humanized management in these companies. Some key decisions like deactivation, work load assignment and redressal of grievances should be dealt with humanized management rather than algorithmic management. And these companies need to consider workers as employees and should offer social security benefits like pension, provident fund and insurance. The researcher made these suggestions by considering the views of the respondents and strongly believing that these structural changes will eradicate problems of platform-based gig workers.