Sri Vijaya Puram | February 23, 2026
Mr. Rakeshwar Lall, State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, has submitted a representation to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands proposing the implementation of Bharat Taxi, a cooperative-based taxi platform, in the Islands.
In his letter, Mr. Lall stated that Bharat Taxi is aligned with the Government of India’s policy of strengthening the cooperative sector in emerging service industries. He explained that the platform operates on cooperative principles, wherein drivers function as members and stakeholders. According to him, the model ensures more equitable income sharing, minimizes high aggregator commissions, and promotes transparent and regulated fares for passengers.
Highlighting the current transport situation at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Sri Vijaya Puram, Mr. Lall pointed out that passengers reportedly face limited transport options, with one operator widely perceived to dominate airport taxi services. He noted that the prevailing minimum fare of around Rs. 400, even for short distances of one to five kilometres, places a financial burden on tourists, local residents, and visiting officials. He further observed that such conditions create an impression of monopolistic practices at a key public entry point to the Islands.
Mr. Lall emphasized that the introduction of Bharat Taxi could foster fair competition, create structured livelihood opportunities for local drivers under a cooperative framework, enhance tourist confidence, and support the Administration’s commitment to accessible and accountable public services.
He urged the Administration to examine the feasibility of implementing the cooperative taxi platform at the earliest, preferably in coordination with local transport authorities, cooperative societies, or the tourism department. He also suggested that the system could be introduced on a pilot basis in Sri Vijaya Puram with appropriate regulatory oversight.
Copies of the representation have been marked to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration and the Deputy Commissioner of South Andaman for information and necessary action.
