The development of digital space is happening along with the transformation of employment. Currently, the global labor market is rife with online platforms that provide gig jobs. India is not exempt from experiencing this expansion and the complications that follow. In light of increasing instability and pressure, delivery workers in India have collectively demanded the elimination of 10-minute delivery service.

The Development of Gig Economy in India

E-commerce, especially quick commerce where swift delivery is prioritized, has grown exponentially in India since the COVID-19 pandemic. During lockdowns, online platforms helped connect small warehouses to consumers safely and quickly. According to an NITI Aayog’s policy brief, 7.7 million workers were a part of India’s gig economy in 2020–2021.

Then, the industry developed. There are around 890 million Indians who have access to the internet. With such a high number, digital space becomes a playing field for new types of service industries. Affordable smartphones and a shift to digital payment fuel the demand for speedy response. Furthermore, the expansion of quick commerce is supported by the competition among global investors. 

But this battle among corporations impacts middle class gig workers with little to no say in the matter. One of the most controversial strategies created by these companies is a 10-minute delivery service. It is a marketing catch that promises customers to shop and have their groceries delivered by drivers within a three kilometer radius or so at lightning speed.

The Ending of 10-Minute Delivery Service

Pushback is happening. India-based Gig Workers Association reveals that the core problem of the 10-minute delivery model is the practice of multi-order delivery. Automated systems ingrained in the platforms are built to penalize and lower the ratings of workers when delays occur. Meanwhile, the increased workload that jeopardizes workers’ health and safety often does not come with fair compensation.

In response, more than 200,000 platform-based delivery workers went on a nation-wide strike on the last day of 2025. Following the collective movement, Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya advised quick commerce platforms to put an end to their rigid duration in delivery. 

After a meeting with the government, some leading delivery platforms decided to remove the 10-minutes delivery model from their system. This rollback might not even be affecting companies negatively at the end of the day. Instead, the reduction of pressure toward gig workers and the lowering expectations from consumers should allow companies to design a more stable and consistent framework for the sustainability of their business.

Collaborative Effort in Changing Labor Landscapes

Indian trade unions played a major role in the success of rescinding the 10-minute delivery model. Along with their incessant campaigns toward labor protection, the government and companies must also work hand-in-hand to ensure the fulfillment of workers’ rights. With the changing climate, global uncertainties, and rapid technological advancement, the issue is now more important than ever. Ultimately, providing social protection, a safe and inclusive environment, and fair wages for workers is a collaborative effort with all involved parties to achieve decent work for all.

Editor: Nazalea Kusuma

Co-create positive impact for people and the planet.

Amidst today’s increasingly complex global challenges, equipping yourself, team, and communities with interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral insights on sustainability-related issues and sustainable development is no longer optional — it is a strategic necessity to stay ahead and stay relevant.

Join Membership Partner with Us