Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah recently introduced the Bharat Taxi Cooperative Model. The main aim of this scheme is to promote cooperative entrepreneurship and ensure fair distribution of income.
Under this model, a driver called “Sarathi” can become a co-owner of the company by investing only ₹500.
After becoming a member, the Sarathi can also share in the company’s profits. A female driver, called “Sarathi Didi,” can also join the Bharat Taxi scheme.
This initiative is designed to empower taxi drivers by giving them:
ownership rights
income linked to profits
representation in decision-making
The government plans to expand Bharat Taxi to every municipal corporation in India within the next three years.
Drivers to Get Ownership and Representation
Amit Shah said Bharat Taxi was formed by bringing together five of India’s largest cooperatives. As the number of Sarathi members grows, any driver who wants to become a partner can buy shares worth ₹500 and gain ownership.
He also announced that when elections are held for the Bharat Taxi board of directors, some seats will be reserved for Sarathi members. Once drivers join the board, they will be able to represent and protect the interests of other drivers.
Profit Sharing Formula for Drivers
Under the Bharat Taxi scheme:
20% of total earnings will be deposited in Bharat Taxi’s account as Sarathi capital
80% of earnings will be returned to Sarathi accounts based on kilometers driven
According to Amit Shah, the first three years will focus on expanding Bharat Taxi. After that period, profits will be shared in the same 20% (Bharat Taxi) and 80% (Sarathi drivers) ratio.
“Sarathi Didi” Feature for Women Drivers and Passengers
The concept of “Sarathi Didi” has also been included in Bharat Taxi. This feature aims to empower women drivers and improve safety for both drivers and passengers.
In the future, the Bharat Taxi app will include a Sarathi Didi option. When a woman passenger is traveling alone, she will automatically be given priority to be matched with a Sarathi Didi driver.
Who Owns and Runs Bharat Taxi?
Bharat Taxi is owned and operated by its drivers through a registered cooperative society. Every member has a voice in important decisions. Profits are reinvested into:
community welfare
safety improvements
vehicle fleet development
All fares are approved by local transport authorities and shown before booking. The pricing system ensures fair payment for distance, time, return travel, and night charges, without surge pricing or hidden fees.
India’s First Driver-Owned Mobility Platform
Bharat Taxi is India’s first driver-owned cooperative mobility platform. There are no commissions. Drivers earn fairly, and customers pay transparent fares.
The platform runs on an open, government-approved digital system that ensures trust and accountability.
