Delhi : Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah interacted with Bharat Taxi drivers in Delhi. During the dialogue, he stressed that the cooperative sector holds top priority for the government. He added that whoever works hard will earn the profit.
On February 5, Amit Shah launched Bharat Taxi in Delhi. This platform operates as India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing service. The initiative aims to ensure direct benefit for drivers. During the programme, he openly listened to their concerns and suggestions. He reaffirmed that strengthening cooperation remains a central government focus.
Understanding Cooperation Removes Doubts
While addressing participants, he explained the meaning of cooperation. He said, “If you understand the thinking and method of cooperation properly, such questions will not arise. Cooperation means working together and earning together. Amul stands as the biggest example. Gujarat’s 36 lakh mothers and sisters hold membership. Ordinary citizens built this institution collectively. These 36 lakh women started Amul with just 50 rupees each. Gradually, more women joined, and the organisation grew stronger.”
He further stated, “Today this cooperative body of 36 lakh women conducts business worth nearly ₹1 lakh 25 thousand crore. This shows that collective effort transforms small beginnings into major success. I will request the cooperation department to publish on our website the names of 25 women who supplied over ₹1 crore worth milk in one year, which means their income crossed ₹1 crore.”
‘You Are the Owner’
Amit Shah clarified the ownership structure of Bharat Taxi. He said, “Companies usually enrich the owner. Our goal also focuses on making the owner prosperous. However, here you yourself are the owner. You only need to invest ₹500.
Suppose after three years Bharat Taxi earns ₹25 crore, then 20 percent, which equals ₹5 crore, will go into the institution’s account as your capital. The remaining 80 percent will distribute based on kilometres driven.” He added, “You will receive fixed fare and also gain a share of profit. However, you must show patience for the first three years.”
Not a Private Firm but a People’s Initiative
He asserted that Bharat Taxi does not aim to operate like a private company focused only on earnings. Instead, the objective revolves around empowering people. He assured that accounts will remain clear and transparent. He promised that authorities will share every detail in advance. He declared that Bharat Taxi will never exploit drivers.
Launched With Five Major Cooperative Bodies
The minister explained that the government lacked sufficient capital to build such a large institution alone. Therefore, five major cooperative organisations joined hands to launch the initiative. As participation increases, any driver can become an owner by investing ₹500. He added that board elections will reserve some seats for drivers to protect their interests.
Fare Will Not Fall Below Minimum Rate
Finally, Amit Shah assured drivers about pricing. He said Bharat Taxi will not conceal information and will notify updates one week in advance. He confirmed that profit will add above the minimum fixed fare. He firmly stated that the service will never reduce charges below the base rate.
