New Delhi witnessed a groundbreaking announcement from Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Monday. Speaking at an interactive session with Bharat Taxi drivers, Shah emphasized that the initiative transcends a mere taxi service. It’s a revolutionary step to honor drivers as ‘Sarathis’—the true owners of the company’s profits.
Shah underscored a core principle: those who labor should reap the rewards. ‘Our goal is to make taxi owners wealthy, and the Sarathis are the real owners,’ he declared. Drivers will not only drive but also share in the profits, positioning Bharat Taxi as a driver-centric model unlike traditional cab aggregators.
The minister revealed ambitious expansion plans, promising Bharat Taxi’s presence in every municipal corporation across India within three years. Formed by merging five major cooperatives, the service allows any interested driver to become a partner by purchasing a Rs 500 share, granting them ownership rights.
Transparency and empowerment are at the heart of this venture. Shah announced reserved seats for Sarathis on the Board of Directors once elections occur. This ensures drivers’ voices shape decisions, safeguarding their interests from within.
Financially, 20% of earnings will build a capital reserve for Sarathis, while 80% returns directly to them based on kilometers driven. After initial expansion over three years, profits will follow the same 20-80 split, with the majority empowering drivers.
Bharat Taxi pledges full transparency via notifications, aiming to be the world’s most open cab service. A baseline rate, factoring vehicle costs, fuel consumption, and minimum profit, ensures fair operations. Beyond economics, Shah highlighted driver welfare and courteous customer service as pillars of success.
This cooperative movement could redefine urban mobility in India, blending economic justice with scalable service.