Thu Jan 01 12:09:38 UTC 2026: News Article:

Record Food Delivery Orders Surge on New Year’s Eve Despite Gig Worker Strike

New Delhi, January 1, 2026 – Food delivery giants Swiggy, Zomato, and Magicpin reported unprecedented order volumes on New Year’s Eve, even as a portion of their gig workforce participated in a strike demanding better pay and working conditions. The strike, organized by the Gig & Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU), saw an estimated 100,000 workers across 22 cities, including 14,000 union members in major metropolitan areas, participating in the action.

However, companies claim the strike had a negligible impact on their operations. Deepinder Goyal, Founder of Eternal (Zomato and Blinkit), stated on X that his platforms delivered at a record pace, crediting local law enforcement for managing “miscreants” and enabling over 450,000 delivery partners to fulfill over 7.5 million orders for 6.3 million customers. Magicpin CEO Anshoo Sharma echoed this sentiment, reporting no impact from the strike.

Consumers across India indulged in festive favorites, with biryani, pizzas, butter chicken, and traditional desserts like gajar ka halwa topping the order charts. Swiggy reported a staggering 219,000 biryani orders before 7:30 PM.

Goyal defended the gig economy, stating it is a major job creation engine and is working to improve its delivery systems for gig workers. He urged people not to be swayed by “vested interests,” and said that the gig economy is an important engine for India’s economy.

Summary:

Despite a New Year’s Eve strike by gig workers demanding improved working conditions, food delivery services Swiggy, Zomato, and Magicpin reported record order volumes. Company executives claimed minimal disruption from the strike, attributing the success to law enforcement and dedicated delivery partners. The data underscores the growing reliance of Indians on food delivery for celebrations, with popular dishes like biryani and pizza dominating orders.

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