Bharat Taxi has been launched as a cooperative zero-commission ride-hailing service, offering a fresh option against big private cab companies in India. What makes it different is its model where drivers keep all their earnings instead of paying a cut to the platform.
This simple but powerful idea could shake up the market, lower costs for passengers, and give drivers more control over their work. Supporters say it’s not just about cheaper rides, but also about building a stronger cooperative movement in India’s cab market. Here’s a detailed review of Bharat Taxi service from its zero-commission model to lower cost for passengers.
The platform has been developed under a cooperative structure, with drivers placed at the centre of ownership and operations. The Ministry of Cooperation has stated that the model aims to reduce dependence on commission-heavy aggregator systems.
Drivers on the platform are referred to as Sarathis and are expected to play a direct role in value creation. The service follows a zero-commission and surge-free pricing approach, with earnings intended to flow directly to drivers.
The platform has been introduced with a focus on inclusive mobility and social security. Benefits such as health insurance, accident cover and retirement savings have been outlined as part of the driver support framework.
Cooperative Ownership Model
Bharat Taxi is operated by Sahkar Taxi Cooperative Limited, which is registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act. The cooperative is backed by several large Indian cooperative institutions.
Under the model, each registered driver holds shares in the cooperative, giving them a stake in decision-making and future profits. This structure differs from the contractor-based arrangements seen on private ride-hailing apps.
Instead of paying a percentage commission on every ride, drivers are required to pay a fixed daily access fee of around Rs 30 to use the platform. This is intended to allow drivers to retain a larger portion of their fare income.
The application is being made available on both Android and iOS devices and supports multiple vehicle categories, including autos, bike taxis and various cab options.
Earnings And Security
The zero-commission structure is presented as a way to improve driver earnings. Since no per-ride commission is charged, income fluctuations linked to platform deductions are expected to reduce.
Drivers, as cooperative members, are also eligible to participate in profit-sharing and governance decisions. This approach is being positioned as a more stable alternative to gig-based systems.
Social security measures form a key part of the platform’s design. Health and accident insurance, along with long-term savings options, are being offered to registered drivers.
Special initiatives such as Bike Didi have also been introduced to encourage women’s participation. More than 150 women drivers have reportedly joined the platform so far.
Impact On Commuters
For passengers, Bharat Taxi is being introduced with surge-free pricing to avoid sharp fare increases during peak hours. Officials suggest this could make rides more predictable.
It is expected that lower platform costs could translate into fares that are up to 30 per cent cheaper than those on private apps, though actual pricing may vary by city.
Safety features such as in-app emergency support and dedicated help desks have been integrated. Support booths have also been set up in collaboration with police agencies in select locations.
Following its launch in Delhi and the National Capital Region, the service is expected to expand to other cities over the next two years. Around 2.5 lakh vehicles are reported to be registered in the NCR region, indicating early interest in the cooperative-led model.
