Directions (Qs 1–10)
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions.
Over the past decade, the gig economy has emerged as a significant component of modern labour markets, reshaping how work is organised and delivered across the world. Characterised by short-term contracts, freelance assignments, and task-based employment, the gig economy has gained momentum due to rapid digitalisation, the expansion of platform-based businesses, and changing workforce preferences. In countries like India, where demographic pressure and unemployment remain persistent challenges, gig work has emerged as an alternative source of income for millions, particularly youth and urban migrants.
The economic importance of the gig economy lies in its ability to provide flexibility to both workers and employers. For businesses, it reduces fixed labour costs and allows quick scaling of operations in response to market demand. For workers, it offers autonomy, flexible working hours, and access to diverse income streams. Sectors such as ride-hailing, food delivery, logistics, content creation, software services, and home-based services have witnessed exponential growth through gig platforms.
However, despite its expanding footprint, the gig economy is accompanied by several structural and regulatory challenges. One of the most pressing concerns is the absence of job security. Gig workers are generally classified as independent contractors rather than employees, which excludes them from traditional labour protections such as minimum wages, paid leave, provident funds, and health insurance. Income volatility further aggravates their vulnerability.
Another critical issue relates to social security and legal recognition. Existing labour laws in many developing economies were designed for formal, long-term employment and have not kept pace with evolving work arrangements. As a result, gig workers frequently operate in a regulatory grey area.
To harness the full potential of the gig economy while ensuring worker welfare, practical policy measures are essential. Redefining labour classifications, introducing social protection schemes, ensuring transparent algorithms, and promoting skill development and upskilling are crucial steps.
1. What would be the most appropriate title for the passage?
2. The gig economy is mainly characterised by:
3. The word most similar in meaning to "exponential" is:
4. Major concerns for gig workers include:
5. "Regulatory grey area" implies:
6. Key policy response suggested is:
7. Which sector benefits from gig platforms?
8. Antonym of "fluctuate" is:
9. Skill development helps in:
10. Fill in the blank with the correct word:
కామెంట్లు లేవు:
కామెంట్ను పోస్ట్ చేయండి