In a landmark move to boost employment and strengthen India’s gig economy, the Government of India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zomato to generate 2.5 lakh flexible job opportunities annually through the National Career Service (NCS) portal. The collaboration introduces a new ‘Aggregator’ category on the NCS platform, marking a significant step toward integrating gig economy roles into the formal employment ecosystem.
Empowering India’s Workforce Through Technology
The partnership between Zomato and the Ministry of Labour and Employment aims to create technology-enabled livelihoods for India’s youth and women, aligning with the government’s broader vision of “Viksit Bharat”. By leveraging the NCS platform, job seekers will now be able to access a range of flexible employment opportunities, including delivery, logistics, and support services, under a structured and transparent system.
This initiative supports the government’s employment generation and skilling agenda, particularly through flagship programs like the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY). By formally integrating gig jobs, the government seeks to bridge the gap between informal and formal sectors, offering workers access to benefits such as digital onboarding, verified employment records, and financial inclusion tools.
NCS Portal: A Gateway to Dignified Employment
The National Career Service (NCS) portal, managed by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, has evolved into one of India’s most trusted employment platforms. It connects job seekers with employers across industries and now expands its scope to include the gig and platform economy through this Zomato partnership.
Officials highlighted that this collaboration will help thousands of young Indians, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, find flexible, location-based job opportunities. The initiative is expected to drive economic inclusion, allowing individuals to balance work and personal commitments while earning a sustainable income.
The government also announced that new job listings will go live around Diwali, bringing an additional economic boost during the festive season. With demand for delivery and logistics services peaking during festivals, this timing will help maximize job creation and income opportunities for the youth.
Integrating the Gig Economy into India’s Growth Story
This MoU represents a transformative step in recognizing gig workers as a vital part of India’s economic structure. Platforms like Zomato have been instrumental in providing income opportunities to millions, and now, through government collaboration, these roles gain formal recognition and better policy support.
By introducing the ‘Aggregator’ category on the NCS portal, the government aims to collaborate with more gig platforms and expand flexible employment options beyond delivery services — including e-commerce logistics, home services, and mobility solutions.
Toward a Future of Inclusive Employment
The Government–Zomato partnership is a model for public-private collaboration in digital employment generation. It embodies the spirit of Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, where technology becomes the bridge between opportunity and inclusion.
As the NCS portal evolves into a comprehensive hub for both traditional and gig jobs, India moves closer to its goal of building a modern, inclusive, and technology-driven workforce. This initiative will not only create jobs but also empower individuals with dignified, flexible, and future-ready livelihoods.
