India's First Cooperative Ride-Hailing Platform Bharat Taxi Launched
NEW DELHI: In a significant move to transform the mobility sector, the Union Ministry of Cooperation has officially launched Bharat Taxi, India's pioneering cooperative-led ride-hailing platform. The initiative, announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, is designed to empower drivers – referred to as Sarathis – by granting them ownership, governance rights, and a direct share in profits.
Platform Structure and Current Operations
Registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act of 2002, Bharat Taxi was established on June 6, 2025, through the collaboration of eight national-level cooperative institutions. The platform has already made substantial progress in its initial phase of operations.
- Geographic Reach: Currently operational in Delhi NCR, including Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida, as well as select parts of Gujarat such as Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Somnath, and Dwarka.
- User Base: According to the latest data from the Press Information Bureau, the app boasts an impressive 990,082 registered customers and over 3 lakh drivers, having completed 291,665 rides to date.
Zero-Commission Model and Financial Benefits
Bharat Taxi distinguishes itself from traditional investment-driven aggregator platforms by adopting a zero-commission model. This innovative approach ensures that profits are distributed directly to the drivers, eliminating intermediary fees.
- Fee Structure: The platform does not charge any platform or convenience fees to riders or drivers within the app.
- Operational Costs: A nominal 7% service charge is applied exclusively at airport prepaid booths to cover essential operational expenses.
Social Security and Inclusive Initiatives
Beyond financial empowerment, Bharat Taxi places a strong emphasis on the social security and well-being of its drivers. The platform offers comprehensive benefits to ensure a supportive working environment.
- Insurance and Savings: Drivers are provided with health and accident insurance, retirement savings plans, and access to emergency assistance services.
- Support Centers: Dedicated help centers are available to address driver concerns and provide necessary support.
- Flexibility and Inclusion: Unlike many competitors, Bharat Taxi allows drivers to work on other platforms without exclusivity clauses. It actively promotes women's participation through initiatives like "Bike Didi," which has successfully onboarded over 150 women drivers so far.
Future Expansion and Strategic Vision
Union Home Minister Amit Shah outlined an ambitious roadmap for Bharat Taxi, highlighting the ministry's plans for nationwide growth and integration.
- Nationwide Rollout: The platform aims to expand its services across India by 2029, with dedicated help centers established in every state.
- Enhanced Social Security: Plans include further strengthening social security measures for drivers to ensure long-term welfare.
- Digital Integration: Bharat Taxi will be integrated with national digital public infrastructure to foster a robust, cooperative-driven mobility ecosystem.
This launch marks a transformative step in India's ride-hailing industry, prioritizing driver empowerment and cooperative principles over profit maximization. As Bharat Taxi scales its operations, it promises to redefine the landscape of urban mobility, offering a sustainable and equitable alternative for both drivers and passengers across the country.
