Bharat Taxi launched: A zero-commission, driver-owned alternative set to disrupt India’s cab market

New cooperative-led ride-hailing platform promises better earnings for drivers, stable fares for passengers, and a shift away from commission-driven gig models.

India’s ride-hailing sector is set for a major shift with the launch of Bharat Taxi, a cooperative-based cab service introduced on Thursday by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Positioned as an alternative to private aggregators like Uber, Ola and Rapido, the platform aims to create a fair, driver-first model within the gig economy.

Unlike conventional cab apps, Bharat Taxi is operated by Sahakari Taxi Cooperative Limited, a cooperative registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act. The initiative is backed by major Indian cooperative institutions such as IFFCO, Amul, NABARD and others, giving it a strong institutional foundation.

At the core of Bharat Taxi is a driver-owned structure. Every driver, referred to as a Sarathi, becomes a shareholder in the cooperative, giving them a direct stake in the platform. Instead of paying a commission on every ride, drivers pay a fixed daily access fee of around ₹30 to use the app. This zero-commission model allows drivers to retain a larger share of their earnings.

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The service is available on both Android and iOS platforms and supports bookings across multiple vehicle categories, including autos, bike taxis, non-AC cabs, AC cabs and XL vehicles. The app also offers 24×7 customer support, built-in safety features, multilingual interfaces, and integration with public transport systems such as the Metro to ensure smoother last-mile connectivity.

A key promise of Bharat Taxi is improved financial security for drivers. Along with higher take-home income, cooperative members are eligible for profit-sharing, participation in governance, and social security benefits such as health insurance, accident cover and retirement savings schemes. This structure is positioned as more sustainable than commission-based gig platforms.

For passengers, Bharat Taxi aims to deliver transparent and surge-free pricing. Officials indicate that fares could be up to 30% lower compared to private aggregators due to the absence of commissions, although actual prices may vary by location and time. Safety measures include dedicated support booths set up in coordination with police agencies, including 35 booths across Delhi, along with in-app emergency assistance.

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The launch addresses long-standing concerns in the ride-hailing market, particularly unpredictable surge pricing for riders and high commission burdens on drivers. By formalising a cooperative, ownership-driven alternative, Bharat Taxi is expected to introduce fresh competitive pressure and potentially reshape how gig platforms operate in India.

The service has been rolled out initially in Delhi and the National Capital Region, with around 2.5 lakh registered vehicles joining the platform at launch. Expansion to other cities and states is planned over the next two years.