India, July 25 -- In a significant step towards transforming the country's mobility sector through cooperation, innovation and inclusive development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis launched the 'Bharat Taxi' service in Maharashtra at a programme held at Navi Mumbai International Airport.
The Initiative
- Launched by CM Devendra Fadnavis at Navi Mumbai International Airport.
- Part of PM Narendra Modi's vision of "Sahakar Se Samriddhi" (Prosperity through Cooperation).
- Taxi drivers ("Sarathis") are not just drivers but owners and shareholders in the cooperative, sharing profits and decision-making.
Cooperative Context
- Maharashtra has a rich cooperative tradition with ~2.5 lakh societies (out of 8.6 lakh nationwide).
- Since the Ministry of Cooperation was established in 2021, 152 major decisions have strengthened the sector, including:
- New National Cooperation Policy.
- Target of 2 lakh new multipurpose cooperatives.
- Computerisation of PACS (Rs.3,000 crore investment).
- Expansion into services like petrol pumps, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and grain storage.
Benefits of Bharat Taxi
- No surge pricing, hidden charges, or aggregator commissions.
- Transparent fares with a fixed service fee.
- Sarathis receive profit shares, stabilizing incomes.
- Focus on women's safety, courteous service, and accountability.
- Employment opportunities for 3,000-4,000 local youth near Navi Mumbai Airport via cooperative credit facilities.
Strategic Impact
- Expands cooperative principles into......
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Travel Media.