Bharat Taxi adds Paytm as partner, users can now make instant UPI payments
Bharat Taxi has added Paytm as its official payment partner. Riders can now make instant UPI payments, while for drivers, the collaboration will unlock additional benefits like easy onboarding and insurance.
Bharat Taxi users can now make UPI payments for their journey with Paytm. The government-backed cooperative ride hailing service, which rivals Uber and Ola, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Paytm, allowing both to use their respective platforms to provide a seamless experience for riders as well as drivers. Bharat Taxi said in a release shared with the media today that riders can pay for rides through Paytm, but the partnership will also help with driver onboarding.
The driver aspect is important because the main thing about Bharat Taxi is that it is pro-driver which gives them complete control over earnings. The Paytm partnership will also enable insurance as well as other essential services for drivers. For riders, Bharat Taxi promises an end to price gouging and relatively cheap fares. With Paytm as a payments partner, they can pay for rides using UPI within the app, as well as through Paytm QR codes, Soundbox and card machines. As part of the collaboration, Paytm will also introduce a Bharat Taxi Mini App that will help build visibility and exposure.
What is Bharat Taxi?
Bharat Taxi is a government-backed ride-hailing service that was recently launched in select parts of India. Although the service has been running in beta since late last year, it was officially launched for everyone in cities like New Delhi on February 5, 2026, by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah.
Unlike traditional platforms like Ola and Uber, Bharat Taxi works on a cooperative model. In India taxis, drivers are often called Sarathi. The platform does not charge drivers any commission, allowing them to keep 100 percent of their ride earnings. However, drivers will have to pay a small amount to access it – reports say it is around Rs 30 per day.
At the time of launch, the Home Minister said that Bharat Taxi “empowers drivers as owners of profits and provides them with respect and dignity.”
Bharat Taxi: Other partnerships
Bharat Taxi has recently tied up with the Airport Authority of India (AAI) to provide surge-free airport taxi services. The idea is that those who book these cabs can get fixed fares when traveling to these areas.
Safety seems to be a major priority for Bharat Taxi. The platform includes built-in security features like a dedicated helpline and in partnership with Delhi Police, 35 special booths have been set up to address passengers’ concerns and complaints. Additionally, all drivers are said to undergo intensive verification to ensure passenger safety.
Bharat Taxi offers multiple ride options. The platform offers AC and non-AC cabs, XL cabs, auto-rickshaws and bike taxis, similar to rivals like Uber, Ola and Rapido.
