Graduates Join the Gig Wave as Logistics Hiring Explodes

India’s blue-collar gig economy witnessed an unprecedented 92% year-on-year surge in hiring in 2024, according to a new report by recruitment platform WorkIndia.

The spike was primarily driven by the rapid expansion of last-mile logistics platforms, including e-commerce, food delivery, and ride-hailing services.

The findings underscore a fundamental shift in how India’s workforce engages with employment—particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

Key Drivers: E-Commerce and Quick Commerce Lead the Charge

The report attributes the hiring boom to the “platformisation of ambition”, a term coined by WorkIndia CEO Nilesh Dungarwal to describe how gig platforms have evolved from stopgap solutions to viable career paths.

The explosive growth of quick commerce, food delivery, and e-retail has created a sustained demand for flexible, on-demand labor.

Nilesh noted, “The likes of quick commerce haven’t just created demand—they’ve validated this sector as a reliable source of income.

For many candidates, especially in smaller cities, delivery jobs are no longer stopgap roles—they’re viable career choices”.

Geographic Hotspots: Delhi, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad Take the Lead

Cities such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata emerged as key hubs for last-mile logistics jobs, each registering over 100% growth in delivery-related job postings.

These urban centers have become magnets for gig-based employment.

This growth is driven by their dense populations, expanding digital infrastructure, and rising consumer demand for doorstep services.

Candidate Trends in Hiring: Graduates Embrace the Gig Model

The report analyzed 4.81 lakh job postings across 2023 and 2024.

It found that applications for gig roles surged by 63%, with the highest increase coming from graduates.

This trend shows that gig work is increasingly seen as a legitimate employment option.

Even individuals with higher education qualifications are finding it attractive and viable.

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