Pravin Darekar defends Namo Cooperative Taxi scheme to deploy 3000 cabs
On Sunday, BJP MLA and Mumbai Bank Chairman Pravin Darekar defended the proposed 'Namo Cooperative Taxi' scheme in Mumbai, clarifying that the initiative aims to improve taxi drivers' livelihoods and create employment rather than serve personal or political motives. Addressing a press conference, Darekar stated that he was willing to step back if there were objections to the scheme, but questioned who would take responsibility for the financial losses suffered by drivers due to private app-based taxi aggregators.
The initiative, previously known as the Devabhau Cooperative Taxi initiative, was renamed 'Namo Cooperative Taxi' following a suggestion by the Chief Minister. Darekar noted that the earlier name could be changed again if it invited further controversy.
The taxi service plans to initially deploy around 3,000 taxis across the state, creating employment for nearly 6,000 people. Priority for these roles will be given to Marathi youth, and 50 percent of the employment opportunities will be reserved for women drivers.
Explaining the background, Darekar said the scheme utilizes the Devdatt Cooperative Society. The society was originally established to work in the transport and tourism sectors and was legally re-registered, but it had remained inactive for several years. It was revived to create employment opportunities for unemployed youth through the cooperative model.
Darekar criticized private taxi aggregators such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido, alleging that these companies exploit drivers by charging high commissions. Under the new cooperative model, participating drivers will become shareholders of the society and receive a share of its profits, ensuring that the benefits remain with the drivers themselves.
Furthermore, Darekar clarified that providing vehicle loans is a long-standing policy of Mumbai Bank. Through the cooperative society, drivers will be able to avail of loans at lower interest rates. Refuting allegations made against the cooperative, Darekar asserted that elections to the society's board of directors had already been conducted and that documentary evidence was available to prove it.
