Launch · Mobility & Logistics

Bharat Taxi expands services to five Uttar Pradesh cities

By Startup Enthusiast · 20 September 2026

What they do

Bharat Taxi is a government-backed, cooperative-led ride-hailing platform for cars, auto-rickshaws, and bikes

The service officially launched in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur, and Prayagraj, operating on a zero-commission model

The platform provides drivers with social security coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh and direct ownership stakes

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath officially inaugurated the Bharat Taxi platform in the state on September 23, 2026.
The service is now active across Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur, and Prayagraj.
Operating on a zero-commission basis, the platform ensures that drivers, referred to as Saarthis, receive the full fare from every trip.
Registered drivers receive social security benefits valued at up to Rs 5 lakh.
The company finalized partnerships with the Lucknow Metro, local police, and the airport to streamline its local operations.
State officials are currently evaluating the potential to implement this cooperative framework for rural bus transportation.

This initiative seeks to grant drivers greater professional dignity and financial protection.
The cooperative structure empowers drivers to act as stakeholders who influence organizational decisions.
The government aims to leverage this model to generate significant employment for youth across both urban and rural regions.

Bharat Taxi provides a mobile application for booking cars, auto-rickshaws, and motorcycles.
It is managed by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited and integrates with the ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) infrastructure.
The Ministry of Cooperation promotes the platform through the National Cooperative Development Corporation.
Seven national cooperatives, including AMUL and IFFCO, provide institutional support to the venture.
Drivers retain 100% of their earnings because the platform does not deduct service fees.
The system includes features like fixed pricing and accident insurance for its members.

The Uttar Pradesh government is exploring the development of rural bus services using the Bharat Taxi cooperative model.