In a major policy shift aimed at reshaping Maharashtra’s mobility ecosystem, the state government has announced it will soon launch its own ride-hailing app for taxis, auto-rickshaws, and bike taxis, positioning it as an alternative to private aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik shared details of the initiative this week, describing the app as a move to curb monopolistic practices, create jobs, and empower youth across the state. “This scheme will make lakhs of youth in Maharashtra self-reliant,” Sarnaik said. “Our government aims to offer an affordable, transparent alternative through a state-backed app.”
Why It Matters: Reducing Reliance on Private Aggregators
The upcoming app—tentatively named Jai Maharashtra, Maha-Ride, Maha-Yatri, or Maha-Go—is being developed in partnership with:
- Maharashtra Institute for Transport Technology (MITT)
- MITRA Organisation
- Private tech developers
The goal is twofold:
- Empower local drivers and reduce their dependence on high-commission aggregator platforms.
- Ensure affordability and safety for passengers, while making the fare structure transparent.
Sarnaik criticised current ride-hailing platforms for what he called “exploitative practices,” including surge pricing and unfair commission cuts, both of which the state app will aim to eliminate.
How the Government Plans to Support Drivers
To encourage participation, especially among unemployed youth, the state will provide financial assistance for vehicle purchases. Key features of the loan plan include:
- 10% interest loans via Mumbai Bank
- 11% interest subsidy from government bodies such as:
- Annasaheb Economic Development Corporation
- Nomadic Tribes Development Corporation
- OBC Development Corporation
- Maharashtra State Development Corporation (MSDC)
- Annasaheb Economic Development Corporation
“This effectively makes the loan interest-free,” Sarnaik noted. “It’s designed to help young men and women start driving with little to no financial burden.”
What’s Next? App Development Timeline
A final review of the app’s design and features will take place on August 5 at Mantralaya, with technical teams, state officials, and policy advisors present. The app’s rollout is pending approval from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar
Once approved, the app will be officially launched statewide.
The app will be developed in full compliance with the Central Government’s Aggregator Guidelines, ensuring that key provisions around safety, insurance, digital fare receipts, and driver verification are in place.
Bike Taxis and Legal Enforcement
The transport department has also framed rules for bike taxis, which will be offered under the new app, though final approvals are still awaited.
At a recent meeting at Vidhan Bhavan, Sarnaik ordered strict legal action against unregistered and non-compliant app-based mobility services—buses, cabs, and bikes—that currently operate outside the regulatory framework. “All app-based vehicles must follow the law. We will not allow grey-zone operations,” he warned.
This app could mark a landmark shift in public mobility, breaking the long-standing dominance of private players in the ride-hailing space. By focusing on youth employment, affordability, and local empowerment, Maharashtra is taking a bold step toward reclaiming control over urban and rural transport systems.
