Business · India Bureau
Uttar Pradesh launches zero-commission taxi scheme with social security
The Yogi Adityanath government has unveiled 'Bharat Taxi', a ride-hailing service offering drivers commission-free operations and ₹5 lakh in social security coverage. The initiative will roll out across four major cities starting with Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi and Prayagraj.
LSN India ·
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced the launch of 'Bharat Taxi', a state-backed transportation service designed to benefit cab drivers and two and three-wheeler operators across the state. The scheme eliminates commission charges typically levied by private ride-hailing platforms, allowing drivers to retain full earnings from their services.
The platform will provide participating drivers with social security coverage worth ₹5 lakh, addressing longstanding concerns about financial protection for gig workers in the transportation sector. This benefit package aims to offer drivers access to healthcare and financial security previously unavailable in the largely unorganized sector.
Initial operations of 'Bharat Taxi' will commence in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi and Prayagraj, four significant urban centers in the state. The rollout is expected to accommodate taxi drivers as well as operators of two-wheelers and three-wheelers, broadening the scheme's reach across multiple categories of transport workers.
The initiative represents a government-backed alternative to existing private platforms, positioning itself as a driver-friendly option that prioritizes earnings retention and social protection over commercial profitability. State authorities have indicated plans to expand the service to additional cities following the initial launch phase.