Will Politicising the Gig Economy Kill Quick Commerce?
Synopsis
Amitabh Kant warns that politicising the gig economy could jeopardize quick commerce and job security for millions. As the debate intensifies, both sides present compelling arguments about the future of gig workers in India.
Key Takeaways
Amitabh Kant warns that politicising the gig economy poses a risk to job creation.
Gig jobs are set to increase significantly by 2030.
Delivery platforms like Zomato and Blinkit cater to millions of customers daily.
Concerns about worker rights and compensation are being raised.
Delivery partners earn tips in addition to their base pay.
New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) In the midst of an escalating discussion on gig workers, former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant has asserted that politicising the gig economy could obliterate quick commerce, eliminate jobs, and force workers back into the informal sector.
In a message on X, Kant criticized Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha and his party, declaring them as not job creators but job destroyers.
“Gig employment is projected to rise from 7.7 million to 23.5 million by 2030, making it one of India’s largest job-creation sectors. Labeling this as ‘exploitation’ by those who haven’t created any jobs is more about politics than reality,” Kant highlighted.
On December 31 alone, Zomato and Blinkit fulfilled over 75 lakh orders. This surge was driven by millions of Indians opting for speed, convenience, and value, he remarked.
“If the gig economy is politicised, it will kill quick commerce, obliterate jobs, and revert workers back to the informal sector where they have zero rights and zero safety. @raghav_chadha and AAP are not job creators; they are job destroyers,” Kant emphasized.
He advocated for letting markets function, bolstering safety nets, and warned against sabotaging innovation for political motives.
Chadha responded on Friday, stating, “It’s unfortunate that millions of delivery riders, who contributed significantly to the growth of instant-commerce firms, are now compelled to protest to be acknowledged.” He stressed that these quick delivery platforms thrived due to the hard work and dedication of the delivery riders, who deserve to be treated with dignity.
Previously speaking to IANS, Chadha raised alarms regarding inadequate and unpredictable compensation, excessive working hours, a lack of social security, and the absence of respect in the workplace.
However, according to Eternal Founder Deepinder Goyal, the average earnings per hour (EPH), excluding tips, for a Zomato delivery partner were Rs 102 in 2025.
“In 2024, this figure was Rs 92, indicating a 10.9% year-on-year increase. Over the long term, EPH has shown consistent growth. Most delivery partners work only a few hours and a handful of days each month. Yet, if someone works 10 hours a day for 26 days a month, this results in gross earnings of Rs 26,500/month. After considering fuel and maintenance (20%), the net earnings for the partner amount to Rs 21,000/month,” he clarified.
Additionally, delivery partners retain 100% of the tips provided by customers.
“The average tip per hour in 2025 on Zomato was Rs 2.6, compared to Rs 2.4 in 2024. Tips are transferred immediately without deductions. We cover the payment gateway processing costs ourselves. Approximately 5% of orders on Zomato receive tips, while 2.5% on Blinkit do,” Goyal stated on X.
In 2025, the average Zomato delivery partner worked for 38 days in the year, averaging 7 hours per working day, reflecting true gig-style participation rather than fixed schedules, he added.
Point of View
The discussion surrounding the gig economy reflects a significant socio-economic challenge. While there are valid concerns about worker rights, it's essential to balance these with the need for innovation and growth in a rapidly changing job landscape. The implications of politicising this sector are profound, affecting millions of livelihoods and the economy at large.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the gig economy in India?
The gig economy is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting an increase from 7.7 million to 23.5 million jobs by 2030.
How does Amitabh Kant view the politicisation of the gig economy?
Amitabh Kant believes that politicising the gig economy could lead to job losses and push workers back into the informal sector.
What concerns did Raghav Chadha raise regarding gig workers?
Raghav Chadha highlighted issues such as low pay, long hours, and lack of social security for gig workers.
What are the average earnings for Zomato delivery partners?
In 2025, the average earnings per hour for Zomato delivery partners were Rs 102, reflecting a year-on-year increase.
What percentage of Zomato orders receive tips?
Approximately 5% of orders on Zomato receive tips, which are transferred to delivery partners without deductions.
