Uttar Pradesh Launches Bharat Taxi and Farmer Welfare Scheme with Zero Commission and Social Security

Lucknow, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unveiled two significant initiatives on September 23 in Lucknow: the ‘Bharat Taxi’ service and the ‘Chief Minister’s Farmer Prosperity Scheme.’ These programs aim to provide substantial benefits to taxi drivers and farmers across the state.

Under the Bharat Taxi initiative, drivers of taxis, two-wheelers, and three-wheelers can register to join the service with zero commission. Additionally, they will receive social security coverage of up to five lakh rupees. This move is expected to provide drivers with peace of mind, allowing them to focus on their responsibilities.

In conjunction with this, the Chief Minister’s Farmer Prosperity Scheme has reduced the interest rate on loans from the Cooperative Rural Development Bank from 11% to 6%. Adityanath emphasized that the success of cooperatives hinges on effective leadership. He noted that strong leadership can transform cooperatives into a vehicle for prosperity, while poor leadership could lead to chaos.

The Chief Minister pointed out that taxi and vehicle drivers had often been overlooked in previous policies. Now, with the Bharat Taxi initiative, they will be recognized and supported. The service, which aims to enhance connectivity across the state, has already commenced operations in cities like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, and Prayagraj. Agreements have been established with various institutions, including the Lucknow Airport and the Lucknow Metro.

Adityanath also highlighted the role of young riders during the 2025 Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, where they facilitated safe transport for pilgrims to the Sangam. He urged Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh to expand rural bus services in line with the Bharat Taxi model, which could create new job opportunities for countless youths.

While launching the Farmer Prosperity Scheme, Adityanath reiterated the importance of supporting farmers. He expressed the goal of providing long-term loans to five lakh small and marginal farmers, ensuring they have the necessary funds for agriculture and machinery. A prosperous farmer, he noted, contributes to a prosperous nation.

The Chief Minister reflected on the revival of cooperative banks in the state, stating that 15 out of 16 previously inactive banks have returned to profitability. He announced an increase in interest-free cash credit limits for primary agricultural credit societies from 10 lakh to 15 lakh rupees. The cooperative sector has welcomed 54 lakh new members, and efforts are underway to enhance digital systems for timely delivery of essential agricultural supplies.

During the event, Adityanath also launched the Chief Minister’s Farmer Prosperity Portal app and introduced a mobile app for fertilizer access, aimed at streamlining cooperative services. He presented shares of Bharat Taxi to five drivers and loan approval letters to beneficiaries of the farmer scheme.