This article seeks to understand the different dimensions of informal employment in India from a gender perspective. It also seeks to understand the social and economic impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on the lives of female informal workers in Ludhiana (Punjab). Gender pay gaps are larger in the informal sectors examined than in the formal sector. The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened existing social and economic inequalities, resulting in loss of jobs, low income, increasing the burden of household work, concerns about payment of rent and limited access to health services for female informal workers.

The objective of this research is to explore the impact of COVID-19 on digital transactions in India and related research issues. From results of a paired sample t test, it has been observed that COVID-19 had significant impact on use of digital payments. Challenges such as low rate of financial inclusion, issues with network congestion and internet connectivity, and cultural preference for cash are preventing people from moving over to digital payment platform. The results of this study may help stakeholders in devising strategies that encourage wider adoption of digital payments.