Bharat Taxi Launch: Everything to Know About India's First Cooperative Cab Alternative to Ola & Uber

The Union Ministry of Cooperation and the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) have jointly launched Bharat Taxi, the country's first government-backed cooperative cab service, which is expected to provide affordable and driver-friendly transportation, competing directly with private ride-hailing apps such as Ola and Uber.

Government Launches Driver-Owned Cab Platform

Bharat Taxi operates on a cooperative ownership model unlike traditional cab aggregators. Drivers are referred to as "Saarthis", which means charioteers, and will become members and shareholders of the Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited, the body which is managing the service. This structure will help drivers to retain 100% of their earnings, with only a nominal membership fee to be paid that is better than the high commissions charged by private platforms.

No Surge Pricing, No Hidden Fees

One of the biggest promises of Bharat Taxi is its no added surge pricing, a major pain point for commuters using app-based taxi services. The fare structure will be government-regulated and transparent, ensuring predictable rates with no last-minute cancellations or hidden costs.

In addition, the service will also have DigiLocker and UMANG, providing secure digital verification for drivers and easy access to ride-related services for passengers.

Delhi Pilot Launch in November

As per reports, the pilot phase of Bharat Taxi will begin in Delhi in November 2025 with an initial fleet of 650 cabs. Officials confirmed that the service will expand to other major cities by December, with a long-term goal of onboarding one lakh drivers by 2030.

Backed by India's Cooperative Giants

As per an ET report, Bharat Taxi's management board includes some of India's most respected cooperative leaders, including Jayen Mehta of Amul, who serves as the Chairman of Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited. The initiative is backed by major institutions such as Amul, IFFCO, NABARD, and NCDC, providing financial and operational support for the project.
According to officials, these will ensure that Bharat Taxi remains financially sustainable and professionally managed while staying true to its cooperative values.

Challenge to Ola and Uber

Bharat Taxi is entering the market, which has long been dominated by private players like Ola, Uber, and Rapido, who have faced criticism over high driver commissions, surge pricing, etc. If Bharat Taxi lives up to its expectations, it could change the lives of cab drivers & set a path for other public-private collaborations in India's mobility sector.