ABSTRACT
India's gig economy is expanding rapidly, driven by digital platforms and flexible work arrangements, yet it poses challenges like income instability and limited social protections. This study investigates entrepreneurial dynamics in this context through the lens of Knight's Profit Theory (emphasizing uncertainty and innovation), Social Network Theory (highlighting relational resources), and Push-Pull Theory (exploring motivators for gig entry). Using structural equation modeling (SEM) on data from 104 gig workers, sampled via snowball method from ride-hailing and delivery sectors in urban Karnataka, we find that all three theories positively influence gig worker success, measured by income stability and job satisfaction. Push-Pull Theory mediates the relationship between Social Network Theory and success. The novelty lies in integrating these theories to address the gap in theory-driven empirical studies on Indian gig entrepreneurship. Findings suggest policy needs for worker protections and skill development.
