Amit Shah to launch ‘Bharat Taxi’, India’s first cooperative ride-hailing platform with zero commission model
PTC Web Desk: Union Minister for Cooperation Amit Shah will today launch ‘Bharat Taxi’, the country’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, marking a major step towards driver-led mobility solutions and strengthening India’s cooperative ecosystem.
Designed as a people-centric alternative to private cab aggregators, Bharat Taxi operates on a zero-commission and surge-free pricing model, ensuring that drivers retain a larger share of their earnings. The Ministry of Cooperation said profits generated through the platform will be directly distributed among drivers, referred to as ‘Sarathis’, who are placed at the core of ownership and decision-making.
The platform also places strong emphasis on social security, offering benefits such as health insurance, accident coverage, retirement savings plans, and a dedicated driver support mechanism. Notably, around 200 women drivers have already joined the service, reflecting its inclusive approach.
While backed by the Central government, Bharat Taxi is not a government-run app. It is operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited, a driver-owned cooperative supported by professionals associated with institutions such as NABARD and Amul, globally recognised for successful cooperative models.
Under the cooperative structure, each driver holds five shares in the organisation. Unlike private platforms like Ola and Uber, no per-ride commission is charged. Instead, drivers pay a fixed daily app access fee of Rs 30, a move aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over high commission rates and limited driver control in aggregator-driven systems.
Officials said fares on Bharat Taxi could be up to 30 per cent lower than those charged by private players, as savings from the zero-commission framework are passed on to passengers. Traditional ride-hailing apps typically deduct between Rs 30 and Rs 50 per ride as commission. The platform has already onboarded over four lakh registered drivers, according to official estimates.
The app is equipped with multiple safety features, including a dedicated helpline. In partnership with the Delhi Police, 35 special booths have been established to address customer grievances. All drivers undergo a verification process before onboarding.
Bharat Taxi offers a wide range of services, including AC and non-AC cabs, XL vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and bike taxis, matching the flexibility provided by established ride-hailing companies.
The platform witnessed a soft launch last year in Delhi and Gujarat, where it recorded an average of 5,500 rides per day, including nearly 4,000 airport trips, officials said.
- With inputs from agencies
