Bharat Taxi Service: India’s First Cooperative-Based Ride-Hailing Platform

Why in News ?

• The Union Home Minister recently launched Bharat Taxi, a cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, in Gujarat. The initiative aims to provide a fair, transparent, and driver-centric alternative to private cab aggregators while promoting the government's vision of "Sahkar Se Samriddhi". 

Institutional Framework

• Bharat Taxi is India's first cooperative-led and driver-owned ride-hailing platform, where drivers are not merely service providers but also stakeholders in the enterprise. 
• It is registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002, enabling it to operate across multiple states under a cooperative governance framework. 
• The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Cooperation and the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), ensuring robust institutional backing and digital integration. 

Cooperative Governance Model

• Drivers are recognised as "Sarathis" and can become shareholders in the cooperative, allowing them to participate in decision-making and benefit from the platform's growth. 
• The platform is operated by Sahkar Taxi Cooperative Limited, which functions on cooperative principles of democratic ownership and collective benefit. 
• It is supported by major cooperative institutions, including NCDC, Amul (GCMMF), NDDB, NAFED, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, NABARD, and NCEL, providing financial, institutional, and operational support. 

Digital and Economic Features

• Bharat Taxi follows a zero-commission model, ensuring that the entire fare paid by passengers is transferred directly to the Sarathis, thereby increasing drivers' earnings. 
• It offers transparent and affordable pricing without surge charges, making fares predictable for passengers. 
• The platform is integrated with key Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) platforms such as DigiLocker, UMANG and API Setu, enabling seamless digital verification and service delivery. 
• Sarathis are provided access to institutional loans, insurance coverage, vehicle financing, skill development, and business expansion opportunities, promoting long-term financial security and entrepreneurship.