Amid the ongoing gig worker debate, former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant cautioned that politicizing the gig economy could harm quick commerce, eliminate jobs, and force workers back into the informal sector. Kant criticized Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha and his party, labeling them as “job killers” rather than job creators.
Highlighting the significant growth potential of gig jobs, Kant emphasized that they are expected to increase from 7.7 million to 23.5 million by 2030, serving as one of India’s primary job generators. He dismissed claims of exploitation, stating that such allegations are more political than factual.
Kant pointed out that on a single day, Zomato and Blinkit collectively fulfilled over 75 lakh orders, driven by the preferences of millions of Indians for speed, convenience, and value. He stressed the importance of allowing markets to function, reinforcing safety nets, and avoiding hindrances to innovation for political motives.
Raghav Chadha expressed concern for delivery riders, noting their struggles with low pay, long hours, lack of social security, and dignity issues at work. However, Eternal Founder Deepinder Goyal provided insights into the earnings of delivery partners, citing a steady increase in average earnings per hour over the years.
Goyal shared that delivery partners on Zomato earned an average of Rs 102 per hour in 2025, showing a 10.9% year-on-year growth. He highlighted that despite working limited hours per month, partners could earn a substantial amount, with additional income from customer tips. Goyal also emphasized the flexibility and participation style of delivery partners in the gig economy.
