The cooperatives-backed ride-hailing service Bharat Taxi is set for its official launch in Delhi and other cities by the end of January, following strong performance during its pilot phase. The digital platform, operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd, was introduced in the capital on December 2, 2024, and has received an encouraging response from users and drivers alike.

Strong Performance Metrics During Pilot Phase

According to Panjak Kumar Bansal, Additional Secretary in the Cooperation Ministry, the service has demonstrated impressive operational metrics since its soft launch. The platform has been recording consistent daily performance across multiple service categories.

The service operates across cab, auto, and bike categories, providing comprehensive transportation options for users across Delhi.

Cooperative Structure and Leadership

Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd is backed by eight prominent cooperative organizations, creating a strong foundation for the venture. The cooperative structure ensures driver representation at the governance level.

Zero-Commission Model and Driver Benefits

The platform operates on a distinctive zero-commission model that sets it apart from traditional ride-hailing services. This approach allows drivers to retain their complete earnings from each ride, with cooperative profits being distributed directly among the driver community. The initiative was announced by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in Parliament in March 2024, with the primary objective of reducing commercial vehicle drivers' dependence on private companies.

Advanced Features and Safety Integration

Bharat Taxi offers comprehensive features designed to enhance user experience and operational transparency. The app includes mobile ride booking capabilities, transparent fare structures, real-time vehicle tracking, multi-lingual support, and round-the-clock customer service. The platform has been integrated with transit services such as Metro rail, enabling users to book multiple modes of transportation through a single application. Additionally, a partnership with Delhi Police has been established to ensure safety measures for both riders and drivers.

Market Expansion Plans

With the successful completion of the pilot phase in Delhi, the service is preparing for its official launch across multiple cities by January-end. The strong response during the soft launch phase, combined with the robust driver registration numbers, positions Bharat Taxi as a significant player in India's ride-hailing market, offering an alternative cooperative-based model to existing private platforms.

The Indian government has stepped into the ride-hailing arena with the launch of Bharat Taxi, a cooperative taxi service set to compete with private giants like Ola and Uber. This initiative, developed under the Union Ministry of Cooperation and National e-Governance Division, aims to revolutionize the taxi service industry by prioritizing driver benefits.

Key Features of Bharat Taxi

• Driver-Centric Model: Bharat Taxi allows drivers to retain full ownership of their earnings, eliminating the hefty commission fees typically charged by private operators.
• Membership Structure: Instead of commissions, drivers will pay nominal daily, weekly, or monthly membership fees.
• Cooperative Ownership: The service will be operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd, with an initial capital of Rs 300 crore.

Rollout Plan

Bharat Taxi's launch will follow a phased approach:

Governance and Oversight

A dedicated governing council will oversee the operations of Bharat Taxi:

Impact on Drivers

The introduction of Bharat Taxi could significantly impact driver earnings:

This new model potentially allows drivers to retain a larger portion of their fares, addressing a long-standing concern in the ride-hailing industry.

Conclusion

The launch of Bharat Taxi marks a significant move by the Indian government to enter the digital ride-hailing space. By leveraging the cooperative model, it aims to create a more equitable system for drivers while providing a competitive alternative for consumers. As the service rolls out across major cities, its impact on the existing ride-hailing ecosystem and its reception among drivers and passengers will be closely watched by industry observers and policymakers alike.