Government to Launch Ola, Uber-like ‘Sahkar’ Taxi Service: Amit Shah Announces in Parliament

| Photo Credit: MURALI KUMAR K

In a significant move to boost the cooperative sector, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday announced the government’s plans to launch a new app-based taxi service, ‘Sahkar’, on the lines of Ola and Uber. The announcement was made in Parliament while the House was discussing the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which includes provisions for setting up a national cooperative university.

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‘Sahkar’ taxi platform to empower drivers and cooperatives

Shah said the upcoming service will be operated under the cooperative model, ensuring that drivers become stakeholders rather than just service providers. “This is not just a slogan. The Ministry of Cooperation has worked relentlessly for three and a half years to implement this on the ground. In a few months, a major cooperative taxi service will be launched, ensuring direct profit flow to the drivers,” the Home Minister said.

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The announcement comes amid growing scrutiny of major ride-hailing platforms, Ola and Uber, following allegations of discriminatory pricing. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) recently issued notices to both companies after reports surfaced suggesting that ride fares varied based on whether a user was booking via an iPhone or an Android device.

Bill passed to set up the National Cooperative University

Among other changes, the bill paved the way for setting up a National Cooperative University to train and upskill youth in the principles and practices of cooperatives. “We are creating a university that will offer diplomas, certificates, and degrees in cooperative education. It will prepare future leaders for a sector that has historically empowered lakhs of farmers and small entrepreneurs,” Shah said.

What’s next for ‘Sahkar’ taxi service?

While Mr. Shah did not specify a timeline for the rollout of the ‘Sahkar’ taxi service, the platform may be piloted in select cities before taking it up nationally, as usual practice. The government is likely to position the initiative as part of its broader ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation) mission. We’ve curated a wealth of information just for you at https://9bet.locker/.