Bharat Taxi launched in Maharashtra; drivers to share profits under cooperative model

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday launched cooperative-based ride-hailing platform 'Bharat Taxi' in the state, saying the service will offer an alternative to app-based taxi aggregators.

The service was launched at Navi Mumbai International Airport in the presence of Union Minister of State for Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol and representatives of the cooperative sector.

The launch follows the rollout of the platform in Delhi and Gujarat as part of the Centre’s push to expand the cooperative model into new sectors.

Addressing the event, Fadnavis said app-based taxi services had improved convenience for commuters but issues such as surge pricing, hidden charges and aggregator commissions had created problems for both passengers and drivers.

He said Bharat Taxi would address these concerns through a cooperative model in which drivers, referred to as "Sarathis", would not only provide services but also become owners and shareholders of the cooperative institution.

The platform will operate without surge pricing or hidden charges and will levy a fixed service fee, while profits will be shared with the Sarathis, he said.

Fadnavis also said an agreement with the D B Patil Cooperative Transport Association would help provide taxis through credit facilities to around 3,000-4,000 local youth living around the Navi Mumbai International Airport.

Union Minister of State for Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol said the launch marked a new chapter in Maharashtra's cooperative movement and would create employment and self-employment opportunities for youth and women.

He urged people to join the platform, saying Bharat Taxi would make Sarathis partners in the growth and profits of the cooperative institution.

According to the government, Bharat Taxi aims to replace the intermediary-centric model followed by existing ride-hailing platforms with a cooperative framework that offers transparent fares, stable incomes for drivers and profit-sharing.

During the programme, share certificates and service kits were distributed to drivers associated with the platform.

The government said Bharat Taxi would be expanded across Maharashtra in phases by onboarding more taxi drivers, youth and women through cooperative institutions and local transport organisations.