Examine the role of the ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (150 words) [2021]
The gig economy has the potential to empower women in India through alternative employment opportunities and breaking traditional gender stereotypes.
Role of the gig economy in women’s empowerment in India:
- Flexibility and work-life balance: The gig economy offers flexible work hours, allowing women to balance employment with unpaid care work and domestic responsibilities.
- Access to diverse job opportunities: Women are increasingly participating in non-traditional roles like technology and engineering, where they were previously underrepresented.
- Economic empowerment: Gig work enables women to earn a decent income, improving their standard of living and financial independence.
- Breaking gender stereotypes: The gig economy challenges traditional gender roles by providing women with access to a wider range of job opportunities.
Challenges:
- Digital divide: Limited access to digital technologies, especially for women in rural areas, poses a significant barrier to entry in the gig economy.
- Wage disparities: Women gig workers often face wage disparities, with an 8-10% difference in earnings compared to male counterparts.
- Limited social protection: The lack of standardized social protection benefits impacts women’s decisions to continue in the gig economy.
- Need for policy and regulatory framework: Collaboration between the government and India Inc. is necessary to create an enabling environment for women gig workers, including strong public policy and regulatory frameworks. copyright©iasexpress.net
The gig economy can significantly empower women in India by offering flexibility, diverse job opportunities, and economic independence. However, addressing the challenges is crucial for a more inclusive and gender-equitable gig economy. Collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to create a supportive environment for women gig workers.
