The Karnataka Shakti Scheme : Free Bus Service For Women

In a significant stride towards women’s empowerment, the Karnataka Shakti Scheme, launched by the Government of Karnataka in 2023, aims to provide free-of-cost bus services to eligible women beneficiaries across the state. This groundbreaking initiative is set to transform the lives of countless women by offering them convenient and affordable transportation options.

Introduction to the Karnataka Shakti Scheme

The Karnataka Shakti Scheme is the flagship program of the Government of Karnataka, envisioned to uplift women by addressing their transportation needs. Launched in 2023, this scheme seeks to enhance women’s financial independence by offering free bus rides throughout Karnataka.

Eligibility Criteria

To benefit from the Karnataka Shakti Scheme, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. Permanent Resident of Karnataka: The beneficiary should be a permanent resident of Karnataka.
2. Gender: The scheme is open to women of all ages, including girls aged 6 to 12.

Documents Required

To avail of the free bus service until receiving a Smart Card under the Karnataka Shakti Scheme, the following documents are required:

• Aadhar Card
• Voter Identity Card
• Any Other Photographed Identity Card

Application Process

The application process for obtaining a Smart Card under the Shakti Scheme is simple and user-friendly. Here’s how eligible women beneficiaries can apply:

1. Visit the Karnataka Seva Sindhu Portal: The online application form for the Smart Card is available on the Karnataka Seva Sindhu Portal.
2. Register: Begin by registering yourself on the portal.
3. Login: After successful registration, log in to the portal.
4. Fill the Application Form: Complete the application form for the Shakti Scheme Smart Card and upload the required documents.
5. Verification: The concerned officials will verify your application form.
6. Smart Card Issuance: Once your application is approved, you will receive a Smart Card for free bus rides in Karnataka.

Benefits of the Karnataka Shakti Scheme

Eligible women beneficiaries of Karnataka can enjoy the following benefits under this scheme:

• Free Bus Service: Women can travel on government-run buses across Karnataka free of cost, without the need to purchase tickets.
• Exclusive Government Buses: Only government-operated buses will provide free bus services to women in Karnataka, ensuring reliability and convenience.

Please note that this free bus service is applicable for travel within the boundaries of Karnataka State and can be availed in Ordinary, Urban Transport, Express, and Regular Transport Buses.

Important Points to Consider

• The free bus service is not available on AC, AC Sleeper, Non-AC Sleeper, or luxury buses.
• There is no minimum kilometer limit for travel, making it accessible for short and long-distance journeys.
• Until the Smart Card is received, women beneficiaries can use any of the mentioned photographed identity cards to avail the free bus service.
• The scheme is expected to benefit more than 41 lakh women, covering 6,308 City Buses, 5,958 Ordinary Buses, and 6,343 Express Buses.

Conclusion

The Karnataka Shakti Scheme is a commendable effort by the Government of Karnataka to empower women by providing them with accessible and cost-free transportation services. By eliminating the financial burden of commuting, this scheme encourages women to actively participate in various aspects of life, ultimately fostering their empowerment and independence. To stay updated about this initiative, consider subscribing to the Karnataka Shakti Scheme to receive regular updates.