India’s gig economy has transitioned from being a facilitator of urban convenience to a structural pillar of the country’s labor market. Estimated at 120 lakh by 2024-25, according to the Economic Survey 2025–26, gig workers now make up over 2% of India's workforce, with non-agricultural gig work projected to reach 6.7% by 2029–30 and contribute ₹2.35 lakh crore to GDP.

As the platform economy grows, so do questions around road and digital safety, inclusion for women and persons with disabilities, and social protection outside traditional employment. These themes shaped the 3rd edition of Powering Inclusive Growth: Role of Platforms Conference in New Delhi, organised by Zomato and Blinkit in collaboration with Startup India, DPIIT.

The significance of the conference was reinforced by the presence and insights of senior policymakers and industry leaders. The Chief Guest for the Conference, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, acknowledged, “It is encouraging to see industry leaders, innovators and platforms come together to advance delivery worker wellbeing. Platform-based work has opened new avenues of opportunity for millions across the country. The responsibility now is to ensure that this growth is accompanied by robust safeguards and access to social security. While platforms continue to proactively invest in delivery worker wellbeing, such efforts will be strengthened further through constructive engagement and policy support. We encourage platforms to register themselves and their platform workers on the E-Shram portal and to proactively invest in the wellbeing of delivery.”

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