A recent report by Genius HRTech (formerly Genius Consultants) highlights a significant wage gap between gig workers and permanent employees in India, even as festive season hiring ramps up. The study shows 47% of respondents believe gig workers earn less than permanent employees for the same roles, signaling a persistent challenge in the workforce.
The survey included 1,550 professionals across industries, conducted from September 1–30, 2025. Respondents reported the following hourly pay differences for gig workers compared to permanent staff:
- 11% said earnings were up to 10% less
- 23% said wages were 10–25% lower
- 13% said the gap exceeded 25%
Importance of Fair Pay and Skill Development
R P Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director of Genius HRTech, emphasized the need for equal compensation:
“The festive economy thrives on the agility and contribution of gig workers, yet our data shows they continue to operate on unequal terms. Fair pay, skill development, and transparency are critical to building a motivated, future-ready gig workforce that can support India’s seasonal demand.”
Employer Perspective on Pay Differences
Despite widespread calls for pay parity, employers often justify the gap citing flexibility and the short-term nature of gig contracts:
- 56% noted the absence of long-term benefits
- 24% cited short-term employment duration
- 10% highlighted perceived lower skill or training levels
- Only 3% reported no difference in pay between gig and permanent employees
Non-Monetary Benefits to Support Gig Workforce
The report also identified non-monetary perks that could improve gig worker satisfaction:
- 43% favored skill development opportunities
- 31% preferred flexible shifts
- 13% cited transport and meal support
- 9% suggested opportunities to transition to permanent roles
Conclusion
With India’s gig economy expanding rapidly, especially during festive hiring seasons, addressing pay disparities and offering structured benefits is crucial. Doing so not only ensures employee satisfaction but also enhances retention and productivity, making gig workers a sustainable part of India’s workforce.
FAQs
Q1: What is the wage gap between gig and permanent employees in India?
A1: According to Genius HRTech, 47% of professionals believe gig workers earn less, with gaps ranging from 10% to over 25%.
Q2: Why do employers pay gig workers less?
A2: Employers cite flexibility, lack of long-term benefits, and short-term employment duration as primary reasons.
Q3: What non-monetary benefits can support gig workers?
A3: Skill development, flexible shifts, transport and meal support, and opportunities for permanent employment.
Q4: How was the data collected?
A4: The survey included 1,550 professionals across industries during September 1–30, 2025.
