“Joining Majhe Driver App is voluntary. Those who don’t wish to participate can continue operating from taxi stands without protest,” Sawant said.
The app, developed by Graceful Goa Superapp Pvt. Ltd. under the Goa Startup Policy in collaboration with the Goa Motorcycle Taxi Riders’ Association, allows commuters to book motorcycle taxis across the State while enabling pilots to offer additional services such as food delivery, grocery transport and parcel services through a single platform.
Sawant said the platform would directly connect passengers with verified pilots, improve income opportunities and reduce dependency on intermediaries.
“For those without smartphones, we will provide them free of cost or on instalments,” Sawant said. “The company will not take any commission. Pilots will receive 100% of their fare directly into their account.”
He said the app would also improve connectivity in rural and remote areas where transport access remains limited. “This app ensures that a customer can securely book a verified pilot instead of paying very high taxi fares. Pilots are the most trusted people in Goa,” he said.
He further added that the platform would not replace traditional earnings but would supplement them. “This will not reduce your existing fares but will bring additional work. Rent-a-bike services had impacted your business, but this system will help restore opportunities,” he said.
The Chief Minister further warned against illegal operations. “Private vehicles will not be allowed to function as motorcycle taxis. Any such vehicles found ferrying passengers illegally will be seized,” he said.
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, also present at the launch, said the government had revised its EV support plan for pilots.
“We have made an agreement with the association for this technology-driven initiative to strengthen last-mile connectivity,” Godinho said. “Instead of free electric bikes, we will offer heavier EV bikes with a 50% subsidy. The scheme is voluntary, and pilots can opt in if they find it beneficial.”
He said the platform would also allow pilots to expand into parcel and delivery services, boosting earnings.
Sawant also announced welfare measures for riders, including a Rs 2,000 monthly pension for pilots above 50 years of age under the Dayanand Samajik Surakshit Yojana, which will be restarted from August 1.
He urged pilots to adopt the platform, calling them “tourist ambassadors of Goa,” and said the government would continue supporting their livelihood through technology-led reforms.
