Aadit Palicha, CEO and co-founder of quick-commerce startup Zepto, has responded to recent remarks made by the Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal at the Startup Mahakumbh 2025, in New Delhi, today. Speaking at the event, which runs from April 3-5, the minister said that India’s startup ecosystem should aim higher than creating "delivery boys and girls."
“Food delivery apps are turning jobless youth into cheap labour so the rich can eat without leaving home”, added Goyal. Palicha took to social media platform Twitter to defend the contributions of consumer internet startups like Zepto, while acknowledging the challenges ahead.
Aadit Palicha highlighted Zepto’s achievements
In his post, Palicha highlighted Zepto's rapid growth and impact since its inception just three and a half years ago. Palicha claimed that the company has generated approximately 1.5 lakh jobs, providing livelihoods to thousands across India. He also mentioned that Zepto contributes over Rs 1,000 crore annually in taxes and has attracted more than $1 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI). Palicha also emphasised that the startup has invested heavily in organizing India's backend supply chains, particularly in the fresh produce sector, driving efficiency and innovation.