Bharat Taxi Launched in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur and Prayagraj

Bharat Taxi was launched in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur and Prayagraj on 23rd of September 2026. This cooperative ride-hailing service works on the principle of “Driver is the Owner”. Respectable Union Minister of State for Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol addressed the launch in Lucknow, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath flagged off the service. Around 40,000 drivers, called Saarthis, have registered across the five cities. Nationally, more than 10 lakh Saarthis have joined since the service began in February 2026.

What Happened?

The launch programme was held in Lucknow on Wednesday, 23rd of September 2026. Minister Mohol said the initiative extends the cooperative movement into mobility and gives drivers a stake in the service.

Also, public service providers like Lucknow Airport, Lucknow Metro and Lucknow Police signed Memoranda of Understanding with Bharat Taxi. Adityanath also launched the Mukhyamantri Krishak Samriddhi Yojana portal, the Urvarak Setu mobile app and the UPCDC mobile app of the Uttar Pradesh Cooperative Database Centre.

How Bharat Taxi Works

Bharat Taxi is described as the country’s first cooperative-led ride-hailing platform. It is operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (STCL).

• Zero commission: Drivers pay no commission on rides.
• Direct payment: Earnings are credited straight to the Saarthis’ accounts.
• Ownership: Drivers hold a stake in the cooperative and take part in decision-making. Share certificates were handed to five Saarthis at the launch.
• Vehicle types: Taxi, two-wheeler and three-wheeler drivers can register.
• Social security: Cover of up to Rs 5 lakh, as stated by the Chief Minister. Saarthis can also be linked to e-Shram for health and insurance benefits.

Statistics About Bharat Taxi