The government has clarified that Bharat Taxi, India’s cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, is not intended to replace private taxi aggregators such as Ola and Uber. Instead, the platform aims to provide an alternative mobility solution focused on drivers and passengers through the cooperative model.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said Bharat Taxi is designed to improve the economic and social well-being of drivers, known as Sarathis, while offering passengers safe, reliable and affordable transportation services.
The minister also clarified that the government has not provided any financial assistance, equity support or incentives for setting up or expanding the platform.
Bharat Taxi Operated Through Cooperative Model
Bharat Taxi is operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (STCL), a multi-state cooperative society registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.
The platform is supported by eight national cooperative institutions, including NCDC, IFFCO, Amul (GCMMF), KRIBHCO, NAFED, NABARD, NDDB and NCEL. These organisations support the cooperative framework through institutional collaboration, outreach and member participation.
Focus on Driver Welfare and Passenger Safety
The platform aims to create better opportunities for drivers while ensuring a transparent and dependable travel experience for passengers.
Before onboarding, drivers and vehicles undergo verification processes. The platform also maintains trip records, provides an SOS facility, allows passengers to share journey details with trusted contacts and coordinates with police authorities during emergencies.
Customer data is protected through encrypted storage in line with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Transparent Fare System and Complaint Support
Amit Shah said Bharat Taxi follows a transparent fare framework developed after discussions with state transport authorities, Sarathis and other stakeholders.
Any changes in fares will consider factors such as operational costs, local transportation conditions and stakeholder feedback.
The platform also provides grievance support through its call centre, customer support team and grievance redressal mechanism to address concerns from both passengers and drivers.
Bharat Taxi Expands Across Multiple States
Currently, Bharat Taxi operates in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh, with registered drivers across cab, auto and bike categories.
As of July 28, 2026, around 8.27 lakh Sarathis have registered on the platform, with Delhi-NCR recording the highest number of registered drivers.
Future Expansion Plans
The expansion of Bharat Taxi services to more cities and states will be managed by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited based on operational requirements and necessary approvals.
The platform also plans to collaborate with airports, railway stations, metro networks and other public transport systems to improve last-mile connectivity across India.
