The Union Government is ready to roll out Bharat Taxi, a new cab-hailing service backed by the Centre, in Delhi from January 1, marking its entry into a space long dominated by private ride-hailing platforms.
The initiative is being positioned as a commuter- and driver-friendly alternative that priorities price certainty, transparency and safety.
Unlike existing cab apps that rely heavily on surge pricing, Bharat Taxi will operate on a fixed-fare system. Officials say ride costs will not fluctuate based on traffic congestion, peak-hour demand, weather conditions or festive rush. The move is expected to bring relief to daily commuters who often face sudden fare spikes during high-demand periods.
The app will show the exact fare before booking, allowing users to make informed decisions without worrying about last-minute price changes. Authorities believe this approach will help reduce fare-related disputes and build trust among passengers.
On the driver side, Bharat Taxi introduces a high-earning model that significantly alters how revenue is shared. Drivers will receive over 80 per cent of the fare, a sharp contrast to the commission structures followed by most private aggregators. Any additional surplus generated through the system will be distributed among members instead of being retained by a company, giving the platform a cooperative-style framework.
Government officials say the model is designed to improve income stability for drivers and ease the financial strain caused by high commissions and long working hours. Better pay and predictable earnings, they add, could also improve road safety by reducing fatigue among drivers.
Safety and accessibility have been built into the platform from the ground up. Bharat Taxi will include real-time ride tracking, verified driver onboarding and round-the-clock customer support. The app will also support multiple Indian languages, making it easier for a wider section of the population to use the service.
Interest from drivers ahead of the launch has been strong, with around 56,000 drivers in Delhi already registered on the platform. The service will offer a range of transport options, including autos, cars and bike taxis, giving passengers flexibility depending on distance, budget and urgency.
