New initiative ‘Abhyam’ to provide health coverage, income protection and scholarships for workers’ children
Mumbai (Economy India): In a significant move aimed at strengthening social security for gig workers, Delhivery on Monday announced a comprehensive welfare programme covering its frontline workforce of over one lakh delivery partners across India.
The initiative, named ‘Abhyam’, will provide accidental insurance coverage of up to ₹15 lakh, family health insurance, income-loss protection, and educational scholarships for workers’ children.
The company said the programme has been designed to address the financial vulnerabilities faced by gig workers, who form a critical pillar of India’s rapidly expanding digital and logistics economy.
Strengthening the Gig Economy Safety Net
According to Delhivery, frontline delivery workers often remain financially exposed, with a single medical emergency or accident having the potential to erase months of earnings.
Under the Abhyam programme, workers will receive:
- Accidental insurance coverage of up to ₹15 lakh
- Family health insurance benefits
- Income-loss protection during emergencies
- Scholarships for employees’ children
- Financial support mechanisms during unforeseen incidents
The company stated that the initiative aims to ensure that accidents or health-related disruptions do not escalate into long-term financial crises for delivery personnel and their families.
Growing Focus on Gig Worker Welfare
The announcement comes at a time when policymakers and businesses are increasingly focusing on improving social protection measures for gig and platform workers.
India’s gig workforce is projected to grow significantly over the coming years, driven by the rapid expansion of e-commerce, quick commerce, food delivery, and logistics services.
However, the sector continues to face challenges related to healthcare access, insurance coverage, job security, and income stability.
Industry experts believe Delhivery’s move could encourage other logistics and platform companies to introduce similar welfare measures.
Industry Implications
The launch of Abhyam reflects a broader shift in corporate strategy toward balancing operational efficiency with workforce well-being.
Enhanced social security measures are expected to improve worker retention, increase productivity, and build a more resilient logistics ecosystem.
As competition intensifies in India’s logistics sector, employee welfare initiatives are likely to emerge as a key differentiator among companies.
(Economy India)
