Bharat Taxi app to launch on 1 January, 2026: here's everything you need to know

The Bharat Taxi app, a government-backed ride-hailing service, is poised to launch on January 1, 2026. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Cooperation, this initiative aims to provide a more equitable alternative to existing platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. Cooperation Minister Amit Shah recently confirmed the app's launch during a parliamentary session, emphasizing its goal of liberating drivers from reliance on private companies. Managed by the Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited, the app is supported by eight major cooperative and financial institutions, including NCDC, IFFCO, AMUL, and NABARD, with the Ministry of Cooperation as the principal promoter. Bharat Taxi is being hailed as the world’s first national mobility cooperative fully owned by its drivers, boasting over 51,000 registered driver members in regions such as New Delhi and Saurashtra. This platform seeks to tackle a significant concern for drivers in the ride-hailing sector: the high commission fees, which often range from 20% to 30% per ride. In a significant shift, Bharat Taxi will not impose any commission fees, allowing drivers to retain 100% of their earnings. Additionally, the cooperative structure offers drivers benefits including board representation, annual dividends, and a stake in the cooperative's profits. The app has already undergone a soft launch in Delhi and Gujarat and is available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. Riders can access the Bharat Taxi app, while cab drivers can download the Bharat Taxi Driver app from their respective app stores. The platform will offer a diverse range of services, including two-wheelers, rickshaws, taxis, and four-wheelers, similar to those provided by its private competitors. Minister Amit Shah has stated that the app is expected to create new job opportunities and significantly contribute to economic growth in rural areas. As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds around how this initiative could reshape the ride-hailing landscape in India.