Major food delivery platforms Swiggy and Zepto have officially rebranded their controversial '10-minute delivery' claims. This significant change comes directly after a government order instructed them to remove the mandatory deadline.
Government Intervention Sparks Change
Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya personally addressed the delivery aggregators. He asked them to eliminate the strict 10-minute delivery requirement. This directive followed widespread strikes by gig workers in December 2025.
Worker Protests Force Action
Delivery personnel across platforms organized strikes last month. They demanded substantial improvements in their pay structures. Workers also called for better and safer working conditions. The intense pressure from these protests caught national attention.
Reports indicate the strikes highlighted serious concerns within the gig economy. Many delivery partners expressed frustration over unrealistic time pressures. The mandatory 10-minute window created significant stress and safety risks.
Platforms Respond to New Guidelines
Swiggy and Zepto have now updated their service descriptions and marketing materials. Both companies are removing explicit promises of 10-minute deliveries. Instead, they are adopting more flexible timeframes for customer orders.
Industry observers note this represents a major shift in operational policy. The ultra-fast delivery model gained immense popularity in recent years. However, it faced growing criticism regarding its impact on delivery personnel.
Broader Implications for Gig Workers
This development marks a potential turning point for India's gig workforce. The government's active involvement signals increased regulatory scrutiny. Delivery platforms may need to reevaluate their operational standards comprehensively.
Worker unions have welcomed the government's decisive step. They view it as an acknowledgment of legitimate grievances. However, they emphasize that more systemic changes remain necessary.
The companies have not yet released detailed statements about revised delivery timelines. Market analysts will closely monitor how this affects customer behavior and platform competitiveness.
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between rapid service expectations and worker welfare. It highlights the complex dynamics within India's booming digital delivery ecosystem.
