A social media post by founder Akash Gupta has triggered discussion online after he described a cab driver who left a corporate job for higher earnings as part of India’s emerging class of “gig entrepreneurs”.Sharing details of his interaction on Instagram, Gupta said the driver had quit a conventional office job and now earns about ₹1 lakh a month by driving a cab full-time. He argued that such workers represent a new segment of India’s middle class shaped by the gig economy.“Bharat ka naya middle class - gig entrepreneur. This is why the gig economy matters,” Gupta wrote. He added that gig workers are not merely delivery partners but micro-entrepreneurs who are creating income opportunities on their own terms.Driver describes career shiftAccording to Gupta, the driver confirmed that he had permanently moved away from his previous job after finding greater financial opportunities in the transport sector.The driver said he had earlier worked in a traditional 9-to-5 role that paid ₹25,000 per month. He explained that switching to cab driving had significantly changed his circumstances, allowing him to determine his working hours, select routes and operate with greater independence.Founder encourages entrepreneurial identityImpressed by the driver’s experience, Gupta encouraged him to describe himself as a businessman when asked about his profession.He told the driver that owning and operating his vehicle while managing his own schedule meant he was effectively working for himself rather than for an employer.Mixed reactions on social mediaThe post received support from several social media users. One user wrote, “Respect all gig workers.” Another commented, “This is so inspirational,” while a third said, “You are right, bro.”However, others disagreed with Gupta’s characterisation of gig workers as entrepreneurs. One user argued that entrepreneurship involves introducing a new concept, idea or material to society and said the driver’s work did not fit that definition. Another contended that the term “self-employment” would be more appropriate than “businessman”.Disclaimer: This article is based on claims, statements, images, videos and other information shared by users on social media platforms. The Economic Times has not independently verified the authenticity, accuracy or completeness of these claims unless expressly stated otherwise. The views, allegations and assertions contained in the social media content are those of the respective users and do not reflect the views of The Economic Times. The publication bears no responsibility for the accuracy of such claims and readers are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent verification where necessary.