Piyush Goyal has launched the Bharat Taxi app in Mumbai, aiming to empower drivers with zero commission, financial benefits, and fair earnings.
In a major push toward driver empowerment and cooperative digital platforms, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal officially launched the Bharat Taxi app in Mumbai on Thursday.
The initiative is designed to provide an alternative to global ride-hailing platforms by eliminating commissions and offering direct benefits to auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. The government-backed platform seeks to create a more equitable ecosystem where drivers retain a larger share of their earnings.
A standout feature of the Bharat Taxi app is its zero-commission policy. Unlike existing ride-hailing platforms that charge drivers significant percentages of their fares, this app ensures that drivers keep their full earnings.
Goyal emphasised that this move will free drivers from reliance on foreign-based platforms that impose high commission rates and subscription fees. By removing these financial burdens, the initiative aims to improve drivers’ income stability and overall financial well-being.
He highlighted that the app will also provide “authorised and affordable fares” for passengers, ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing.
Beyond eliminating commissions, Bharat Taxi introduces a range of welfare benefits for drivers.
One of the key offerings is a free insurance cover of ₹5 lakh, which provides financial security to drivers and their families in case of unforeseen events. This measure is expected to significantly enhance social protection for thousands of workers in the transport sector.
Additionally, drivers will gain access to loans under the government’s Mudra scheme. These loans can be used to upgrade vehicles, improve services, or transition to electric vehicles (EVs), aligning with India’s push toward sustainable mobility.
According to Goyal, these financial tools will not only improve livelihoods but also encourage modernisation within the transport ecosystem.
The Bharat Taxi platform is built on a cooperative-based model, which aims to ensure that profits are distributed among drivers rather than external stakeholders or large corporations.
This approach represents a shift from traditional gig economy platforms, where a significant portion of revenue is retained by companies. Instead, Bharat Taxi focuses on creating ownership opportunities for drivers and recognising their contribution to the service.
Goyal described the initiative as a “significant step” toward ensuring fair rights and dignity for drivers, often referred to as the backbone of urban mobility.
During the launch, Goyal noted that the initiative has begun in Kandivali and will soon expand across Mumbai and the rest of Maharashtra.
The government envisions scaling the platform nationwide, potentially benefiting millions of drivers across India. The expansion plan is expected to generate new employment opportunities while strengthening the cooperative economy.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Goyal shared his interaction with drivers—referred to as “Sarathi brothers”—and reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering them.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would gain momentum and become a transformative force in India’s transportation sector.
The Bharat Taxi platform was first introduced in New Delhi earlier this year by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah.
During the launch event on February 5, Shah interacted with cab drivers and explained the vision behind the initiative. He stressed that the platform is designed to ensure that profits go directly to those who work hard, rather than to large corporate entities.
Shah highlighted common grievances among drivers, including high commission deductions—sometimes as much as 30%—and lack of income certainty on existing platforms. Bharat Taxi, he said, aims to address these challenges by offering a fair and transparent alternative.
India’s ride-hailing sector has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by digital platforms and increasing urban mobility demands. However, this growth has also brought challenges, particularly for drivers.
High commission rates, fluctuating incomes, and limited social security have been persistent concerns. Bharat Taxi seeks to tackle these issues by introducing a driver-centric model that prioritises financial inclusion and stability.
By combining technology with cooperative principles, the platform aims to create a sustainable and inclusive mobility solution.
Another significant aspect of the Bharat Taxi initiative is its focus on sustainability. By facilitating access to Mudra loans, the platform encourages drivers to adopt electric vehicles and upgrade their fleets.
This aligns with India’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting green transportation. The transition to EVs could also lower operating costs for drivers, further enhancing their earnings.
The integration of financial support with environmental objectives positions Bharat Taxi as a forward-looking solution in the mobility sector.
The launch of Bharat Taxi also reflects India’s broader push for self-reliance in digital platforms. By developing a homegrown alternative to international ride-hailing apps, the initiative supports the vision of building indigenous technology solutions.
It underscores the importance of reducing dependency on foreign platforms while strengthening domestic capabilities in the digital economy.
Conclusion
The launch of Bharat Taxi in Mumbai marks a significant milestone in India’s effort to transform the ride-hailing industry. With its zero-commission model, financial benefits, and cooperative structure, the platform promises to empower drivers and create a more equitable ecosystem.
As the initiative expands across Maharashtra and potentially nationwide, it could redefine how ride-hailing services operate in India—placing drivers at the centre of growth and ensuring they receive the rewards of their hard work.