A STUDY ON THE GIG ECONOMY AND URBAN LABOUR FREELANCE WORKERS' EXPERIENCES IN CHENNAI CITY
Keywords:
Gig Economy, Freelance Work, Urban Labour, Digital Employment, Income Stability, Chennai City, Work-Life Balance, Precarious Employment, Social Security, Platform Work, Labour Policy, India.Abstract
The gig economy has transformed the landscape of urban labour, offering alternative work arrangements characterized by flexibility, autonomy, and digital connectivity. This study explores the experiences of freelance gig workers in Chennai, a major metropolitan hub in India, focusing on their work patterns, income stability, motivations, and challenges. As the city experiences rapid digital growth, freelance professionals in fields such as IT, design, digital marketing, education, and consulting have become increasingly prominent.
The primary objective of the study is to examine the socio-economic realities of these workers, assess the factors influencing their choice of freelance work, and identify the issues they face in an unregulated, informal job market. Using a structured questionnaire, data was collected from 280 freelance workers through stratified random sampling. Quantitative methods, including descriptive statistics and inferential analysis, were used to interpret the data.
The results indicate that while freelancers appreciate the autonomy and flexibility of gig work, they often struggle with inconsistent income, lack of social security, and limited career progression. Mental well-being and work-life balance are emerging concerns due to irregular schedules and professional isolation. Additionally, awareness and access to government support or legal protections remain low among respondents.
The findings suggest that although freelance work offers valuable opportunities in Chennai’s digital economy, there is a pressing need for policy-level interventions and institutional safeguards. Recognising freelance professionals within formal labour frameworks and ensuring access to benefits, legal support, and financial stability will be critical for sustaining their contributions to urban development. This study adds to the growing discourse on precarious labour and helps bridge the research gap on white-collar gig workers in Indian cities.
