The platform economy in India is expanding at an unprecedented pace, driven by a surge in gig work and digital marketplaces. However, ensuring inclusive growth and equitable opportunities remains a challenge. Recognising this, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her eighth consecutive Budget, announced new initiatives for gig workers—including identity cards, e-Shram registration, and healthcare access under PM Jan Arogya Yojana.

Some industry players like Delhivery are taking proactive steps to drive long-term financial security, stability, and career growth for gig workers.

Suraj Saharan, Co-founder and Chief People Officer (CPO) of Delhivery, says ensuring inclusive growth in the gig economy requires a combination of business innovation and policy support.

“Businesses can drive innovation through financial literacy programs, efficient workforce management, and technology-driven solutions. Collaborations between private and government entities on policy framing and grassroots level execution can further strengthen the gig economy, ensuring it benefits workers, businesses, and the broader ecosystem,” says Suraj.

Growth opportunities and financial security in an evolving gig economy

At Delhivery, says Suraj, they are focusing on empowering their delivery partners with stability and growth opportunities by providing electric vehicles (2W & 3W) at subsidised rates.

Besides, Delhivery transitioned 7,700 delivery riders from partner rolls to the company payroll, giving them continued access to minimum earnings, Employees' State Insurance Corporation, Provident Funds, and introducing paid leave. “Over 1,500 riders have advanced to supervisory roles, managing dispatch centers and gaining leadership experience. Additionally, we support riders during emergencies through our Employee Welfare Fund,” he highlights.

Balancing flexibility with stability to foster sustainable opportunities

Suraj further highlights that balancing flexibility with stability requires a combination of predictable income, career growth, and personal support. “By offering minimum earning guarantees with performance incentives, we ensure steady income while rewarding productivity. At the same time, flexible shifts allow gig workers to balance education, caregiving, and personal commitments," says Suraj.

Delhivery provides essential benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and financial literacy programs to secure workers’ futures. “Through the availability of our Skill Development Programs, we offer gig workers the possibility and opportunity to transition into full-time roles or specialised positions.”

They also offer support systems including helplines, mentorship programs, and peer networks to build a sense of community. “By leveraging technology for efficient scheduling and communication, we ensure workers can enjoy flexibility without compromising on stability or growth.”

Addressing the diverse needs and grievances

Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce means addressing gender-based disparities in the gig economy.

Dedicated helplines for immediate assistance, feedback surveys to gauge evolving needs, and a grievance redressal system for timely issue resolution are there to help employees. Flexible work arrangements, financial planning guidance, and career counseling are also there to support diverse aspirations. “Open communication channels and continuous support ensure our gig workers feel valued and engaged, fostering a culture of inclusion and collaboration,” notes Suraj.

With over 500 female riders across India, Delhivery aims to build a more inclusive workforce by addressing gender-based disparities and creating opportunities for them to thrive.

Women have a critical role to play in logistics. By ensuring tailored work arrangements, leadership opportunities, and safe work environments, we are making logistics a more equitable and accessible industry," says Suraj.

“These facilities are operated and managed by women, giving them a platform to take on leadership roles and gain holistic operational experience.”

Upskilling gig workers for inclusive growth

Beyond job creation, Delhivery focuses on comprehensive skill development to prepare gig workers for future roles. Focus on comprehensive education and skill development to keep delivery partners relevant and up-to-date with operations trends and changes are other initiatives Delhivery has for its employees beyond just employment.

"By working closely with departments like First Mile, Mega Gateways, and Service Centers, we develop training programs that align with company goals and workforce needs," says Suraj.

He adds that over 50% of the supervisory roles on the ground are occupied by on-roll, off-roll, and LMA riders, including gig workers, who transitioned to these positions over time. “We also regularly review and update our training programs to ensure that they remain relevant and up-to-date with operations trends and changes.”

Leadership and management training, communication skills, conflict resolution, Excel, Google Sheets, summarizing reports, problem solving & RCA and customer service are some of the training program Delhivery offers to its gig workers. These training programs help employees develop new skills and knowledge, beneficial for their personal and professional growth. “We also provide e-learning courses, which are convenient and accessible for employees who cannot attend classroom-based training,” highlights Suraj.

To ensure sustainable and inclusive growth in India’s gig economy, businesses, policymakers, and industry leaders must collaborate on regulatory reforms, public-private partnership, and workforce support systems.