India’s dynamic transportation landscape is witnessing a major turning point with the upcoming launch of the Bharat taxi service. Unlike traditional ride-hailing giants, Bharat is being launched by the nation’s robust cooperative sector, intending to provide affordable, quality, and safe rides while ensuring better returns for drivers.
This transformative initiative arrives at a time when millions of commuters and taxi drivers are seeking a fairer, more reliable alternative to privately owned platforms. As the cooperative movement gears up to enter the competitive world of app-based transportation, let’s explore how Bharat taxi seeks to make its mark.
The Cooperative Model: Uniting for a Common Purpose
Cooperatives have a long history of driving people-centric business models in India. True to this spirit, the Multi-State Cooperative Taxi Cooperative Limited was registered in June as an umbrella organization of eight significant cooperatives. With support from renowned organizations like the National Cooperative Development Corporation, Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited, and Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Bharat taxi is poised to leverage the collective power of shared ownership.
Unlike many ventures, this taxi service has no government stake. Instead, it is fully funded and operated by its participating cooperatives, ensuring that its policies and benefits are aligned with its members—primarily taxi drivers and commuters. The authorized capital for the operation stands at an impressive Rs. 300 crore, signalling a serious commitment to reshaping the ride-hailing market.
All-India Operations Set to Begin
The first phase of the Bharat taxi service will encompass four major states: Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. About 200 drivers have already become part of this initiative, with each state contributing 50 members to kickstart the venture. Importantly, this is just the beginning as membership campaigns and outreach efforts are being rolled out to bring more drivers and cooperative organizations into the fold.
The selection of a technology partner is in its final stages, and the Bharat taxi app is expected to be ready for launch by December. By engaging experts and institutions like the Indian Institute of Management – Bangalore, the cooperative is also working on a strong marketing and operational strategy to ensure a smooth rollout and sustained growth across India.
Empowering Drivers, Offering Quality Rides
One of the most significant goals of Bharat taxi is to improve the lives of drivers, often referred to as ‘chalaks’ within the cooperative culture. Traditionally, many drivers have struggled with high commission rates, unpredictable incentives, and lack of job security on mainstream ride-hailing platforms. Bharat taxi aims to change that by offering a cooperative pricing model and ensuring that drivers receive higher returns and fair treatment.
Such a structure doesn’t just benefit the drivers; it also ensures passengers get access to well-maintained vehicles, better service standards, and competitive fares. With the cooperative’s transparent management and reinvestment of profits back into services and members, customers can expect a consistent and safe ride experience.
Leveraging Technology and Cooperative Expertise
Technology forms the backbone of modern transportation services. Recognizing this, Bharat taxi has issued a tender to select an advanced technology partner for developing a robust and user-friendly ride-hailing app. This app is designed to make booking, payment, and ride management seamless for both customers and drivers.
Additionally, a technology consultant is on board to integrate the best practices from across the world, while IIM-Bangalore’s involvement in its marketing strategy attests to the initiative’s professional outlook. By blending the reliability and reach of cooperatives with cutting-edge digital tools, Bharat taxi aspires to be both accessible and innovative.
A New Beginning for India’s Ride-Hailing Market
The upcoming launch of Bharat taxi is more than just the entry of another player into the market—it is a movement towards sustainable, community-driven transportation. As the cooperative model grows, it promises increased accountability, better returns for stakeholders, and a more ethical operating environment, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
Bharat taxi’s journey reflects India’s enduring belief in the power of unity and mutual benefit. With its nationwide rollout on the horizon, commuters and drivers alike can look forward to an option that prioritizes their interests and delivers on its promise of quality, safety, and affordability.
