The Indian government is set to launch a cooperative-based alternative to Uber and Ola, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in Parliament. “PM Modi’s vision of ‘Sahkar se Samruddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation) is not just a slogan. Over the past three and a half years, the Ministry of Cooperation has worked tirelessly to make it a reality,” he stated.
Shah revealed that in the coming months, a large-scale cooperative taxi service will be introduced, covering two-wheeler taxis, auto-rickshaws, and four-wheelers. “Unlike private ride-hailing companies, where profits go to corporate owners, this model will ensure earnings go directly to drivers,” he emphasized.
With no intermediary like Uber or Ola taking commissions, the initiative could potentially boost driver incomes while offering passengers more affordable fares. Given the government’s track record of implementing ambitious projects, this cooperative model is likely to receive strong support.
If successful, India would become the first country to establish a government-backed cooperative ride-hailing service. The nation has precedent in cooperative success—Amul, formed in the 1950s, transformed into one of the world’s largest dairy brands. If this taxi model follows suit, it could serve as a blueprint for other nations to follow.
