Are Gig Workers’ Conditions Really Decent? Zomato CEO's Claims Challenged
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Synopsis
A heated debate has emerged surrounding the working conditions of gig workers in India, as a Telangana-based union challenges Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal's claims about earnings and welfare measures. With many riders stating their reality contradicts Goyal's assertions, the discussion sheds light on the broader issues of gig economy labor rights.
Key Takeaways
- Gig workers in India face significant challenges regarding their earnings.
- The average earnings may not accurately reflect actual take-home pay after expenses.
- Many delivery partners lack essential benefits such as paid leave and insurance.
- Unions emphasize the disparity between corporate claims and reality.
- Understanding the gig economy's impact on workers is crucial for future reforms.
New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) A new discussion sparked on Saturday regarding the working conditions within India’s rapidly expanding quick commerce industry, as a gig workers' union from Telangana vehemently criticized Zomato's CEO Deepinder Goyal's defense of the company's delivery framework, labeling the current circumstances as “not decent work”.
This backlash followed Goyal's detailed statement on X, which explained the earnings structure for delivery partners on Zomato and Blinkit.
He stated that in 2025, delivery partners earned an average of Rs 102 per hour, not including tips, reflecting a 10.9 percent year-on-year increase.
“In 2025, the average earnings per hour (EPH) for a Zomato delivery partner were Rs 102. In 2024, it was Rs 92,” Goyal mentioned in his post on X.
“This indicates a 10.9 percent year-on-year growth. Additionally, EPH has shown steady growth over a longer period,” the CEO pointed out.
Goyal also emphasized that delivery partners have the autonomy to select their working hours, retain 100 percent of customer tips, and are not coerced into unsafe driving due to stringent 10-minute delivery commitments.
He further highlighted the welfare benefits like insurance coverage and pension support provided by the company.
However, the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Association (TGPWA) refuted these assertions, arguing that the real-life situation for many riders is quite different.
In a post on X, the union claimed that after accounting for expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and other costs, the actual earnings plummet to approximately Rs 81 per hour.
According to their estimates, a delivery partner working 10 hours a day for 26 days would make around Rs 21,000 monthly.
The union also indicated that delivery partners lack paid leave, social security benefits, or guaranteed accident insurance.
Consequently, they characterized the current work environment as “not decent work”. They also questioned Goyal’s focus on tips, noting that only around 5 percent of orders on Zomato receive tips, significantly limiting supplemental income for most riders.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing debate about gig workers' rights and working conditions. While the claims made by Zomato's CEO suggest positive trends, the contrasting views from labor unions highlight the need for a comprehensive examination of the realities faced by these workers. Addressing their concerns is vital for creating a fair and equitable gig economy.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average earnings for Zomato delivery partners?
According to Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal, the average earnings for delivery partners in 2025 were Rs 102 per hour, excluding tips. However, after expenses, unions claim this drops to Rs 81.
Do Zomato delivery partners receive benefits?
The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Association states that delivery partners lack paid leave, social security benefits, and guaranteed accident insurance.
What percentage of Zomato orders receive tips?
Reports indicate that only about 5 percent of orders on Zomato are tipped, limiting additional income for most delivery partners.
How does Zomato's delivery model impact working hours?
Zomato delivery partners are said to have the freedom to choose their working hours, but unions argue that pressures exist to meet delivery time commitments.
What is the stance of gig worker unions on working conditions?
Gig worker unions, like the TGPWA, argue that the working conditions are inadequate and label them as 'not decent work,' highlighting the discrepancy between corporate claims and the reality faced by workers.
