At Zomato event, Nitin Gadkari's big thumbs up to food delivery economy

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday underscored the importance of the food delivery economy in India, saying it generates large-scale employment and can help create 2.5 crore jobs by 2030.

Speaking at Zomato's 'Sustainability and Inclusivity: Role of the Platform Economy' conference, the Road Transport and Highways Minister said India currently has 77 lakh delivery workers, and their numbers are expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

"Giving employment to 2.5 crore youths of this country is really a big thing for the country...The most important priority for all of us is to create jobs," Gadkari said, appreciating Zomato for providing employment opportunities to unemployed youth.

However, the minister expressed concerns over road safety, highlighting the vulnerability of delivery personnel who operate under time constraints.

"They have to give their delivery in a limited time and that is the reason that they can face the accident," he said.

Gadkari noted that India records 45 road accidents and 20 deaths every hour, with two-wheeler riders being particularly vulnerable. "The two-wheeler deaths are 80,000...and deaths due to non-usage of helmet is 55,000," he said.

He further pointed out that 10,000 deaths occur due to driving on the wrong side, and a large number of lives are lost in the 18-45 age group.

"By giving good training, we can avoid the accident," Gadkari said, congratulating Zomato for training 50,000 delivery riders as medical first responders.

"I launched the first responder training program with Zomato last year. Timely medical care in the golden hour can save lives. As per AIIMS data, 62% of accident victims' lives can be saved if they receive immediate medical attention," he added.

Gadkari also highlighted the government’s initiatives to set up 1,300 driving training centres across India to address road safety and improve driver skills. He emphasised the need for collective efforts involving government, industry, and educational institutions to reduce road accidents.

The minister lauded platforms like Zomato for their role in job creation and road safety awareness, calling their initiatives significant for the country's sustainable growth.