In Mumbai, auto-rickshaw drivers are now grabbing attention for earning more than many entry-level corporate employees.
According to former investment banker Utkarsh Verma, some auto drivers reportedly earn around ₹75,000 per month, which is more than double the average starting salary of about ₹30,000 for fresh graduates in the city.
In a viral Instagram post, Verma shared his interaction with an auto driver who revealed that he earns around ₹2,500 per day after expenses, adding up to roughly ₹75,000 a month.
He further explained that this is an average figure for a hardworking driver. With extra effort, some drivers can even earn up to ₹1 lakh per month, while the minimum typically ranges around ₹60,000.
Verma also reflected on his own early career, saying that after completing his B.Tech, his first job paid less than what some auto drivers are earning today.
He pointed out that the profession is not just about money. Driving an auto allows individuals to meet and interact with a wide range of people, offering networking opportunities that office jobs often lack. In contrast, corporate roles usually involve sitting in a cubicle, limiting social interaction.
The post quickly went viral and sparked mixed reactions online.
Some users highlighted that while the earnings may be higher, the job comes with long hours, no fixed schedule, and tough working conditions on the roads, dealing with heat, traffic, and uncertainty.
Others pointed out that corporate jobs, even with lower salaries, offer stability, routine, and a more comfortable work environment.
A few also brought up social perceptions, saying that respect for certain jobs is often influenced by factors like the marriage market.
Overall, the discussion reflects a broader debate; while auto drivers may earn more in some cases, money alone does not define success, as each profession comes with its own challenges and trade-offs.
