Domestic workers in Pune are increasingly using app-based platforms like Urban Company and Pronto, moving away from word-of-mouth jobs. Workers report more consistent income and readily available bookings amid rising demand. Several gated societies now have more such workers than before.
In Pune's gated societies, domestic workers are shifting from word-of-mouth jobs to platforms like Urban Company and Pronto as household help demand rises.
Reshma Sartape, 40, who works with Urban Company, said, "The company says earning is in our hands, they just provide the work." Previously, her income was uncertain with long hours for low pay. "At least now I am sure about my income. It helps me manage my household expenses better," she added. Payments arrive regularly despite occasional cancellations, and she feels safer.
Daivashala Ohal, 37, also with Urban Company, credited structured onboarding. "I didn’t even know how to send my location before. They taught us everything, from using the app to managing time," she said. Bi-weekly payments have ended her need to borrow money. The workers noted an increase from three to six in their society recently.
Newer recruit Nirmala Vishwakarma, 34, joined Pronto in December 2025. "Earlier, my condition was very dismal. Now it is slowly improving," she said, praising rest hubs, water access, and transport services. Manisha Dolare, 40, called Pronto earnings satisfactory with timely payments. Devidas Rathore, four years with Urban Company, stated, "The more work you do, the more you earn."
Bookings peak on weekends but overall demand has grown, cutting idle time. Dr Ritika Khurana from Baner used the app during her maids' long leave: "The service was good and very helpful." Platforms offer household verification and issue-flagging for safety, though caution persists. Earnings still depend on experience and workload.