The article discusses the dark side of India’s tech sector, highlighting the prevalence of gigs, scams, and ghost work. With a lack of jobs and low wages, many young people in India are turning to the gig economy, scam call centres, and AI microwork. The article features the story of Saurav, who worked at a scam call centre and ended up in jail. The gig economy in India is growing rapidly, but workers face low wages and limited protections. Additionally, the rise of AI and data annotation work presents precarious conditions for many workers, with little opportunity for higher wages or upskilling. Overall, the article sheds light on the challenges faced by India’s youth in the tech sector and the need for improved labour rights.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rise of gig economy and scam call centres | From traditional employment to gig work and scams | Increased reliance on gig work and scams for employment | Lack of productive jobs and low wages |
| Erosion of labor rights and low-paid work | From secure employment with labor rights to precarious work with low pay | Continued erosion of labor rights and low-paid work | Economic growth not enough to create productive jobs |
| Increase in ghost work and AI microwork | From traditional employment to remote online work in data annotation and labelling | More workers in data annotation and labelling, especially in AI | Low-skill, labor-intensive work with limited job opportunities |
| India’s transition to gig work and scams | From traditional employment to gig work and scams | India’s gig economy to expand, more workers in scams | Lack of productive jobs, need for income |
| Shift towards precarious gig work | From secure employment to precarious gig work | Continued reliance on gig work, low wages, uncertain hours | Lack of productive jobs, need for income |