Zero Commission, Full Ownership: Amit Shah Launches ‘Bharat Taxi’ in Pune, Turning Drivers into ‘Sarathis’
PUNE, November 15, 2026 — In a major push to disrupt the app-based mobility sector and empower commercial drivers, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah formally launched ‘Bharat Taxi’ in Pune today. Inaugurated during a ceremony at the NHEC Plant in Talegaon Dabhade, the cooperative-led ride-hailing platform aims to eliminate third-party corporate commissions and ensure transparent, fixed fares for commuters across Maharashtra.
Addressing the gathering, Shah highlighted that private cab aggregators have exploited drivers for years through steep commission cuts. Under the new cooperative model—guided by the government’s ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation) vision—drivers are no longer treated merely as gig workers, but as ‘Sarathis’ (driver-partners) and co-owners of the enterprise. During the event, Shah also distributed share certificates to four Bharat Taxi Sarathis to mark member ownership.
“With complete transparency, the entire fare amount goes directly into the Sarathi’s bank account without any commission deductions,” Shah stated, noting that over 50,000 cab and autorickshaw drivers in Pune have already registered on the platform.
Legal Framework & Digital Compliance
Operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd. and aligned with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), the service operates strictly under Indian statutory frameworks and digital platform policies:
Cooperative & Transport Laws: The organization is governed by the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002, ensuring periodic financial audits and democratic member governance. All onboarded drivers and vehicles must strictly comply with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (valid commercial driving licenses, permits, insurance, and roadworthiness), while rider and driver contracts fall under the Indian Contract Act, 1872.
Digital & Google Play Store Policies: Separate mobile applications for passengers and drivers have been rolled out on the Google Play Store. In accordance with Google Play’s Developer Program Policies and Indian data protection norms, the platform mandates strict KYC (Know Your Customer) verification for drivers, prohibits unauthorized third-party data monetization, and integrates real-time GPS tracking, 24/7 customer grievance redressal, and an in-app SOS emergency button for passenger safety.
Launch Location & Pune Zone Classification
Union Minister Amit Shah officially launched the Bharat Taxi service at the NHEC (National Heavy Engineering Cooperative) Plant in Talegaon Dabhade, located along the Mumbai–Pune Highway.