Women’s Participation in the Gig Economy: Opportunities and Challenges in the Marathwada Region of Maharashtra (India)

Author(s)	Dr. Vanita Keruji Bankar
Country	India
Abstract	The gig economy has emerged as a new form of employment that offers flexibility, autonomy, and income opportunities through digital platforms such as Swiggy, UrbanClap, Ola, and Meesho. While this sector has created new avenues of work for women in India, their participation remains limited, particularly in semi-urban and rural regions such as Marathwada. This study examines the socio-economic determinants, challenges, and opportunities associated with women’s participation in the gig economy in Aurangabad, Jalna, and Beed districts. Using primary data from 200 respondents and secondary sources from NITI Aayog, ILO, and EPW reports, the research analyses patterns of digital inclusion, skill level, and income generation. Findings indicate that although gig work provides women with time flexibility and self-employment prospects, barriers such as low digital literacy, income instability, and social constraints still restrict their economic empowerment. The paper suggests policy interventions to enhance skill training, social security, and awareness to make the gig economy more inclusive for women in Maharashtra.
Keywords	Gig economy, women empowerment, digital labour, Marathwada, socio-economic participation, Maharashtra.
Field	Sociology > Economics
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-11-22
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.61470
Short DOI	https://doi.org/hbb76p

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