Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel introduced Bharat Taxi in Gujarat, aiming to change the norm in the ride-hailing industry. Unlike traditional taxi companies, this new platform allows drivers to share ownership and benefits, transforming them into stakeholders rather than just service providers. Patel highlighted the significance of this cooperative initiative, emphasizing that drivers, now called Sarathis, will experience self-reliance and dignity through this model.
The launch event, attended by Union Minister Amit Shah, symbolized a shift towards a more inclusive and empowering system for taxi drivers. Patel stressed that Bharat Taxi aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of self-reliant India and marks a significant step in expanding the cooperative movement into the mobility sector. The platform, initiated by eight major cooperative institutions, has already garnered seven lakh members and served over 37 lakh customers since its inception earlier this year.
By introducing transparent fare standards and prioritizing the welfare of both passengers and Sarathis, Bharat Taxi aims to revolutionize the taxi service industry. Additionally, the ‘Sarathi Didi’ initiative is set to create job opportunities for female drivers, enhancing safety for women passengers. Patel expressed optimism about the future success of Bharat Taxi in Gujarat, citing the state’s strong cooperative tradition as a key factor in the platform’s prosperity.
