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Every time my phone pings with “Your order is arriving in 10 minutes,” I pause for a second.
It is incredibly convenient, but I cannot help thinking about the person racing through traffic to make it happen.
In 2026, with quick commerce bigger than ever, these delivery partners are working harder, yet many are still struggling to make ends meet.
AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha spotlighted this issue powerfully.
He shared a screenshot of a Blinkit delivery partner who completed 28 deliveries over nearly 15 hours and earned just ₹763.
His words resonated widely:
28 deliveries. 15 hours of relentless work. ₹763 earned.
This is not a “gig economy success story”.
This is systemic exploitation hidden behind apps & algorithms.”
Even as we move into 2026, stories like this remind us that the core challenges persist, despite some progress.
Writing on behalf of THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA, where we track work and pathways to fairer economies, I have seen how India’s gig sector is at a crossroads.
It is exploding in size, but true dignity for workers is still evolving.
India’s Gig Workforce In 2026: Growth And Reality
India’s gig economy continues its rapid expansion.
Estimates now point to around 15-20 million gig workers in 2026, on track toward the projected 23.5 million by 2029-30.
This includes delivery riders for Blinkit, Zomato, Swiggy, and Zepto; drivers for Ola and Uber; and service providers on platforms like Urban Company.
The appeal is clear: flexibility to log in when you want, no boss hovering over you.
But for many, especially delivery partners, it’s become a full-time grind out of necessity.
Typical challenges in 2026:
- Earnings often hover between ₹15,000–₹30,000 net per month in cities, after fuel and maintenance costs.
- 12-15-hour days are standard to hit incentives.
- Risks from rushing for quick deliveries remain high.
- Algorithm-driven assignments can be unpredictable.
The Lingering Impact Of The 2025 Blinkit Case
That viral screenshot from December 2025 showed a rider online for over 14 hours, with base pay around ₹690 plus a small incentive.
After expenses, the hourly rate was dismal.
Raghav Chadha used it to highlight broader issues he had raised in Parliament: unrealistic targets, no security, and the human cost of ultra-fast promises.
In 2026, while some platforms have tweaked incentives and pay structures, reports from riders suggest variability is still high.
Good months might hit ₹25,000-30,000, but slow periods or penalties drop it significantly.
Progress With The New Labour Codes
A significant step forward came when the four new Labour Codes were implemented, starting in November 2025.
For the first time, gig and platform workers are officially recognised.
Key benefits now rolling out:
- Mandatory contributions from platforms (1-2% of turnover) to social security funds.
- Access to accident insurance, health coverage, maternity benefits, and more.
- Portable benefits via registration on portals like e-Shram.
- Grievance mechanisms and better transparency.
By 2026, hundreds of thousands more workers will be registering, and funds will start to provide real support.
States continue building welfare boards, and enforcement is strengthening.
Here is how things have improved:
| Aspect | Reality | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Often informal, no specific recognition | Defined as gig/platform workers |
| Social Security | Limited or voluntary | Mandatory funds for insurance & benefits |
| Earnings Stability | Highly variable, no minimum guarantees | Better oversight, potential floor wages |
| Job Protections | Easy deactivation | Improved grievance redressal |
| Health & Safety | Minimal mandatory support | Annual check-ups, accident cover expanding |
Trivia
India’s gig economy is projected to support up to 90 million jobs in the long term and add over $250 billion in economic volume – yet many workers still earn less per hour than under traditional schemes like MGNREGA.
Moving Forward: What Needs To Happen Next
As consumers, small actions like tipping well, being understanding in bad weather, and supporting fair policies make a difference.
Platforms can focus on transparent algorithms, better base pay, and safety training.
The government’s continued push on code enforcement will be crucial.
At THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA, we are optimistic: with growth comes opportunity for a model where technology creates convenience without compromising dignity.
Thanks for reading this update on where India’s gig workers stand in 2026.
Change is happening, but there’s more to do.
If this piece sparked thoughts, dive into our other articles on labour trends, tech ethics, and global workforces on the THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA blog.
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