Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with Bharat Taxi drivers to discuss the progress and benefits of India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform. Launched on February 5 in Delhi, the platform has already succeeded in its pilot phase across Delhi-NCR and Gujarat. Moreover, the government plans to expand it to all states and union territories within the next two years.
Drivers Gain Ownership and Control
Bharat Taxi allows drivers to invest as little as ₹500 and become owners of the platform. Consequently, they gain a direct stake in the business instead of working solely as employees. Registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act of 2002, the platform operates on a zero-commission and surge-free pricing system. This model provides a fair alternative to foreign-funded ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola, while giving drivers more control and profit opportunities.
Profit Sharing Rewards Effort and Loyalty
Amit Shah explained that the platform will share profits directly with drivers after the first three years. For example, if Bharat Taxi earns ₹25 crore, it will deposit ₹5 crore (20%) into drivers’ capital accounts. Furthermore, the remaining 80% will be distributed based on the number of kilometres each driver has covered. By doing so, the system ensures that hardworking drivers receive fair compensation for their efforts.
Governance Ensures Transparency and Fairness
The cooperative merges five of India’s largest taxi societies. To protect drivers’ interests, the board reserves specific seats for drivers, known as “Saarthis.” This structure gives them a voice in key decisions. Additionally, Bharat Taxi operates with full transparency, unlike private companies, guaranteeing that drivers receive fair treatment and are not exploited.
Empowering Drivers Nationwide
Ultimately, Bharat Taxi’s goal is to empower drivers by giving them financial stakes, governance rights, and recognition for their work. As a result, the cooperative model fosters a sustainable ride-hailing ecosystem, where drivers benefit directly from the platform’s growth. With government support and a driver-focused structure, Bharat Taxi is set to transform India’s ride-hailing market by prioritising workers over corporate profits.
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