Government Scraps 10-Minute Delivery Push: Safety Over Speed
Overview
India's central government has directed major e-commerce and quick commerce platforms, including Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, and Zepto, to discontinue their aggressive 10-minute delivery claims. The move prioritizes the safety and working conditions of gig workers, responding to public concern and parliamentary debate. Companies are expected to remove time commitments from advertising, with Blinkit already updating its tagline. This directive aligns with broader regulatory efforts to ensure better welfare for platform workers.
Stocks Mentioned
Government Directs End to 10-Minute Delivery Claims
New Delhi – India's Ministry of Labour has formally asked leading e-commerce and quick commerce platforms to cease advertising rapid delivery times, effectively ending the '10-minute delivery' race. The directive was issued following a meeting with executives from companies like Blinkit, Zepto, Zomato, and Swiggy. The government's primary concern is the safety, security, and improved working conditions for the nation's growing gig workforce.
Safety Concerns Take Precedence
Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reportedly emphasized that aggressive delivery timelines create undue pressure on delivery personnel, potentially compromising their safety. This action is a direct response to escalating public debate and parliamentary discussions regarding the welfare of gig workers. AAP MP Raghav Chadha recently highlighted the 'pain and misery' of these workers in the Rajya Sabha, advocating for regulations and social security benefits.
Regulatory Framework and Worker Welfare
Companies participating in the meeting assured the government that they would remove time-bound delivery commitments from their advertisements and social media. Blinkit, a prominent quick commerce player, has already adjusted its marketing, moving from '10,000 plus products delivered in 10 minutes' to '30,000 plus products delivered at your doorstep'. Other platforms are expected to align their strategies in the coming days.
This push aligns with the broader objectives of the Code on Social Security, 2020. This legislation, defining 'gig workers' and 'platform workers,' aims to provide social security measures including life cover, accident insurance, and health benefits. The government's e-Shram portal also aims to build a national database for unorganised workers, including those in the platform economy, to facilitate welfare schemes.
