Are Swiggy and Zomato Increasing Delivery Incentives Amid Gig Workers' Strike?
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Synopsis
In an effort to address the concerns of gig workers, Swiggy and Zomato have announced increased delivery incentives during peak hours and the year-end period. This response comes amid calls for nationwide strikes from delivery worker unions. The article examines the implications of these changes and the ongoing movement for better conditions among gig workers.
Key Takeaways
- Swiggy and Zomato have raised delivery incentives for workers.
- Incentives are introduced amid nationwide strike calls.
- Zomato offers Rs 120-150 per order during peak hours.
- Swiggy announced potential earnings of Rs 10,000 for specific dates.
- Gig workers demand better pay and conditions.
New Delhi, Dec 31 (NationPress) Food delivery companies Swiggy and Zomato have introduced increased incentives for their delivery personnel during peak hours and the year-end period, coinciding with a nationwide strike call from gig and platform workers.
This incentive boost comes in response to demands from delivery worker unions for strikes on December 25 and December 31, expressing concerns over pay, working conditions, and the absence of social security.
Zomato has announced payouts ranging from Rs 120 to Rs 150 per order during peak hours from 6 PM to midnight, anticipating a surge in order volume as New Year’s Eve approaches.
The platform also pledged potential earnings of up to Rs 3,000 throughout the day, depending on order volumes and availability. Additionally, it has temporarily suspended penalties for order rejections and cancellations to alleviate income risks during fluctuating order flows.
Swiggy has proposed earnings of up to Rs 10,000 on December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, with peak-hour compensation reaching up to Rs 2,000 from 6 PM to midnight on New Year’s Eve. The quick commerce service Zepto has similarly raised incentives for its delivery personnel.
During the strike on December 25, 2025, there were brief, localized disruptions in food delivery; however, the platforms reported that operations stabilized later in the day. Unions have indicated broader participation and called for continued mobilization on December 31, 2025.
On the NSE, shares of Swiggy Limited were priced at Rs 390.55 each, reflecting a decline of Rs 13.45 or 3.33% over the past five days. During the same period, shares of Eternal Limited, the parent company of Zomato, fell by Rs 5.60 or 1.96%, settling at Rs 280.
In India, gig and platform workers are entitled to formal legal recognition, portable social-security benefits, and a national registration framework via e-Shram, according to the provisions of the Code on Social Security, 2020 under the new labor codes.
As dictated by the Social Security Code, aggregators are mandated to contribute 1-2% of their annual turnover, capped at 5% of payments made or due to gig and platform workers, to a Social Security Fund, as stated in an official announcement.
Point of View
I find the recent actions by Swiggy and Zomato to increase delivery incentives particularly noteworthy. This response to the strike calls reflects the growing recognition of the rights and needs of gig workers in India. It is crucial to ensure that these workers receive fair compensation and better working conditions, and the increased incentives may signal a positive shift in the industry. We must continue to monitor these developments closely.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new delivery incentives offered by Swiggy?
Swiggy has introduced earnings of up to Rs 10,000 across December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, with peak-hour pay reaching Rs 2,000 from 6 PM to midnight on New Year’s Eve.
Why are gig workers striking?
Gig workers are striking to protest against insufficient pay, poor working conditions, and lack of social security benefits.
What has Zomato announced regarding delivery payments?
Zomato is providing delivery partners with payouts ranging from Rs 120 to Rs 150 per order during peak hours from 6 PM to midnight.
How have the stock prices of Swiggy and Zomato changed?
Swiggy's shares fell by 3.33% over the past five days, while Eternal Limited, Zomato's parent company, dropped by 1.96%.
What does the Social Security Code entail for gig workers?
The Social Security Code mandates that aggregators contribute to a Social Security Fund, providing legal recognition and benefits for gig workers.
