India, Feb. 6 -- Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday formally launched India's first cooperative-based taxi service, 'Bharat Taxi', in New Delhi, marking a major step towards empowering drivers through an ownership-based model.

The launch event was attended by Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar, Murlidhar Mohol, Cooperation Secretary Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani, and several other dignitaries. More than 1,200 driver partners, known as "Sarathis", from different states participated in the programme.

Addressing the gathering, Shah said Bharat Taxi is designed to ensure dignity, security, and financial stability for drivers. He announced that the platform will not charge any commission, booking fee,...