India’s First Cooperative-Based Ride-Hailing Platform
India is witnessing the emergence of a cooperative-based ride-hailing model aimed at creating a more equitable and transparent mobility ecosystem. The initiative seeks to place drivers at the centre of the platform’s ownership and decision-making structure, offering an alternative to conventional app-based ride-hailing models.
Governance Framework
The cooperative approach is designed to promote shared ownership, democratic participation and economic empowerment of drivers. Instead of operating solely as service providers, participating drivers can have a greater role in the functioning and governance of the platform.
The model is expected to strengthen accountability by establishing a framework in which platform operations, revenue distribution and stakeholder interests are aligned with cooperative principles.
Key Objectives
. Promote driver-centric and inclusive digital mobility services.
.Enhance the economic participation of drivers through a cooperative ownership structure.
. Encourage transparent and accountable platform governance.
.Reduce excessive dependence on conventional platform-based intermediaries.
.Support affordable and accessible urban transportation.
.Leverage digital technology for efficient ride booking and mobility management.
.Strengthen the role of cooperatives in India’s emerging digital economy.
Governance Significance
The cooperative ride-hailing model represents a broader shift towards participatory and community-oriented digital governance. By integrating cooperative principles with technology, the initiative has the potential to create a more balanced relationship between platform operators, drivers and passengers.
It also aligns with the broader objective of strengthening the cooperative sector as an instrument of inclusive economic development, livelihood generation and grassroots participation.
Economic and Social Impact
A cooperative-based platform could provide drivers with greater economic participation and potentially improve their bargaining position. For passengers, a competitive alternative in the ride-hailing sector could contribute to greater choice and service accessibility.
The model may also generate employment opportunities and encourage the development of locally governed digital platforms.
Challenges
The long-term effectiveness of such a platform will depend on its ability to maintain technological efficiency, passenger safety, service quality, financial sustainability and transparent cooperative governance. Effective grievance redressal, data protection and regulatory compliance will also be essential.
Bharat Taxi is India’s first cooperative-led ride-hailing platform, established on June 6, 2025, under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002. It is supported by eight national cooperative institutions. The platform combines digital mobility (transportation) with a member-owned model. It operates on a zero-commission model, enabling Sarathi members, as participating owners, to retain the entire fare income. As of July 25, 2026, Bharat Taxi has approximately 800,000 registered drivers and around 4.1 million registered customers across several cities. It offers transparent pricing, multiple ride categories, women-centric initiatives, digital integration, and social security support. With institutional partnerships, planned nationwide expansion by 2029, and technology-enabled services, Bharat Taxi advances the vision of ‘Sahakar se Samriddhi’ through inclusive and cooperative urban mobility.
India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform marks an important development in the intersection of cooperative governance, digital technology and urban mobility. By combining platform-based services with principles of shared ownership and participation, the initiative has the potential to contribute to a more inclusive and accountable mobility ecosystem.
