So, now you all know about major problems in India. One of the key factors is transportation-related issues. Today, we have Mr. Krishna Badwane, the co-founder of Indian Drivers.
Transportation Issues in India:
Many of the current transportation problems have been addressed by services like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. However, certain issues still remain unresolved. Mr. Badwane first shares his journey, stating that he initially worked in a bank. He saw a growing need for organized driver management, which led to the founding of Indian Drivers. He realized that driver management wasn't very organized during his time, yet he took a risk and ventured into this space.
Challenges in Driver Management:
One major challenge was that most driver management services were unorganized. As technology advanced, large players were needed to run these operations smoothly. Issues such as payment delays, poor time management, and a shortage of drivers continue to affect the industry today.
Mr. Badwane’s Journey:
After completing his MBA and working in the banking sector for several years, Mr. Badwane decided to start his own business. He took calculated risks and focused on organizing driver management. Initially, they started on a small scale, using Excel to manage their operations. Before assigning drivers, they manually verified every detail, including background checks, KYC, licenses, Aadhaar, etc. Only after this process could drivers be added to their app.
Indian Driver & ID Driver Apps:
Indian Drivers operates two key apps:
- Indian Driver – Customers can book drivers.
- ID Driver – Drivers looking for employment can register.
They have successfully employed over 18,000 drivers so far.
Services & Pricing:
Currently, they focus on providing drivers, as that’s a unique and necessary service. They also ensure that drivers have experience driving different types of cars. Regarding pricing, Mr. Badwane states that cost management is crucial to growth. The price has to be worth it for both the driver and the customer, ensuring productivity and balance.
Productivity & User Experience:
Mr. Badwane shares an interesting anecdote about a customer who uses drivers so he can meditate during his commute. This shows how people are using their driving time for personal needs, a shift that has led to an increased demand for reliable drivers.
Safety Concerns:
One major concern is the safety of passengers. In some cases, passengers have been threatened or harassed by drivers. Indian Drivers addresses this by thoroughly vetting drivers before hiring. Drivers are interviewed in person, and aspects like communication skills, behavior, grooming, and temperament are closely evaluated. Regular feedback is also collected from customers to ensure continued safety.
Profitability:
When asked about profitability, Mr. Badwane explains that they maintain a 15-20% margin between what customers pay and what drivers receive. This ensures the business remains sustainable without charging extra commissions.
Collaboration with Ola/Uber:
On the question of why Indian Drivers doesn’t collaborate with Ola or Uber, Mr. Badwane explains that Ola/Uber require drivers with their own vehicles (cabs). Indian Drivers, on the other hand, provides drivers without cars, which is a key difference.
AI and Driverless Cars:
Regarding the rise of AI and autonomous vehicles, Mr. Badwane states that India lacks the necessary infrastructure for driverless cars. The roads and traffic conditions present major challenges for such technology. He also mentions Dholera City, a developing smart city in Gujarat, which may be more suitable for driverless cars.
Involvement with Electric Vehicles (EVs):
Indian Drivers is also catering to corporate clients, some of whom are requesting drivers for Electric Vehicles (EVs). The company is currently working to build its capacity for EV services.
Corporate Clients:
Indian Drivers also provides services to corporate clients on a daily or monthly basis, offering fixed rates for frequent use. Companies like Mahindra rely on Indian Drivers for their staffing needs. Mr. Badwane highlights the benefits of partnering with corporate clients, including managing driver absences and ensuring a consistent supply of drivers.
Revenue Generation:
When asked about their revenue, Mr. Badwane says that they have multiple sources of income and are continuously expanding their branches. As of now, they have surpassed ₹1 crore in revenue.
Unresolved Issues in Transportation:
While the transportation sector is growing rapidly, there are still unexplored opportunities. Mr. Badwane believes that many problems remain unsolved, and new players are entering the field with innovative solutions.
Advice to the Youth:
Mr. Badwane’s advice to the youth is to build strong associations with people, as the right connections can help you grow. Stay grounded, be humble, and have a strong will, and you will succeed in this field.
To learn more, watch the full video on our channel, and check out the book "Standout from the Crowd" by our CEO, Aryan Gupta, available on Amazon and Flipkart. Thank you!
