Tue Jan 13 18:06:43 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Platform-Based Gig Workers Celebrate Reported End of 10-Minute Delivery After Labor Ministry Intervention

The Story:

Platform-based gig workers are expressing relief following reports that delivery platforms plan to discontinue the controversial 10-minute delivery model, a decision reportedly influenced by intervention from Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Workers and unions are hailing this as a victory stemming from national strikes held on December 25 and January 31, 2025, citing reduced pressure and decreased risk of road accidents. While welcoming the change, experts and unions emphasize the need for robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure platforms genuinely abandon the quick-delivery practice.

Key Points:

  • Delivery platforms are reportedly ceasing the 10-minute delivery model after intervention by the Union Labour Minister.
  • Gig workers attribute this change to the national strike held in December 2025 and January 2025.
  • The Karnataka App Based Drivers Union highlights the need for fair payouts and social security for gig workers.
  • Striking workers previously demanded a minimum fixed per-kilometer rate of ₹ 20, workplace safety for women, and an end to arbitrary ID blocking.
  • Experts stress the importance of a strong enforcement mechanism and clear penalties for platforms violating the new directive.
  • Apps of Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, and Big Basket continued to show delivery times between 8 and 15 minutes as of January 13, 2026, despite purported changes.

Critical Analysis: (Omitted, as the provided context doesn’t reveal significant strategic depth.)

Key Takeaways:

  • The pressure from gig workers’ unions, culminating in national strikes, appears to have influenced government and platform policies.
  • Government intervention, specifically by the Union Labour Minister, played a role in prompting the reported change in delivery models.
  • Enforcement remains a key challenge. The discrepancy between the reported policy change and the advertised delivery times on apps suggests a need for stricter oversight.
  • Consumer convenience versus worker safety is a prominent theme, highlighting the ethical considerations surrounding the quick delivery model.
  • The need for a comprehensive Gig Workers Labour Law seems inevitable

Impact Analysis: (Omitted, as the provided context doesn’t allow for long-term predictions.)

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