Bharat Taxi Launches with Zero Commission, Assures Income Floor for Drivers

India’s cooperative movement has entered the mobility sector with the launch of Bharat Taxi , a ride-hailing platform that promises a guaranteed base rate for drivers and an ownership model inspired by Amul . Addressing cab and auto drivers at a town hall, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said the platform would not allow drivers to earn below a fixed minimum rate per kilometre, arguing that existing aggregators have avoided setting such a floor while deducting high commissions.

Bharat Taxi operates as a cooperative enterprise in which drivers can become co-owners by purchasing a ₹500 share. Unlike private platforms such as Ola , Uber , and Rapido , the new service currently charges no commission during its initial phase. Under its proposed structure, 80 per cent of net profits will eventually be distributed among drivers based on kilometres driven, while 20 per cent will be retained as cooperative capital to fund expansion and strengthen the organisation. The profit-sharing mechanism is expected to stabilise over a three-year period as the platform scales operations.

The app also seeks to differentiate itself through the absence of surge pricing, aiming to offer predictable fares for riders and stable income for drivers. A three-channel grievance redressal system online, physical help centres and call support is being established to address long-standing complaints from gig workers about limited support on private platforms. Additionally, a ‘ Saarathi Didi ’ feature will enable women passengers travelling alone to opt for female drivers, reinforcing safety measures within the platform.

Backed by leading cooperative institutions, Bharat Taxi has begun operations in Delhi-NCR and parts of Gujarat following a pilot phase and plans to expand nationwide within three years. Vehicle loans are expected to be facilitated through cooperative banks, while insurance coverage will be offered through IFFCO Tokio at competitive premiums.

Among gig workers , the response has been cautiously optimistic. Many drivers have welcomed the assurance of a fixed base rate and the promise of ownership participation, saying income predictability is critical amid rising fuel costs and fluctuating incentives. However, some have indicated that the success of the model will depend on sustained ride demand, competitive pricing for consumers and timely implementation of profit sharing.

As India’s gig economy continues to expand, Bharat Taxi represents a significant experiment in blending digital platform technology with cooperative principles, challenging the dominance of established private aggregators.