- Karnataka’s Shakti Scheme offers free bus travel just for women, promoting safe and affordable transportation.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently gave out the 500th crore ticket under the scheme, marking a big achievement.
- The scheme is part of the government’s welfare efforts amid political tensions, with protests over protocol issues between the state and centre.
In a significant achievement for Karnataka’s flagship welfare program, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday symbolically distributed the 500th crore free bus ticket under the Shakti Scheme. Launched in 2023, the scheme offers free travel to women across the state in government-run buses, aiming to provide safe, accessible, and cost-effective transportation.
Know More About Karnataka’s Shakti Scheme for Women
The Shakti Scheme is a welfare program started by the Karnataka government to promote free bus travel for women across the state. It was launched on June 11, 2023, shortly after the new government took office in May 2023. Under this scheme, women riding government-operated buses don’t have to pay any fare, making daily travel much more affordable and accessible.
Big Step: 500 Crore Ticket Given Out
On 14 July 2025, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally gave the 500th crore ticket under the Shakti Scheme to a woman passenger on a bus near Windsor Manor Bridge in Bengaluru. This shows the huge reach and ongoing use of free travel for women in Karnataka since the scheme started.
The event was attended by important government officials, including Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, and Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, showing the government’s dedication to the program.
How the Shakti Scheme Helps Women Travelers
With the Shakti Scheme, women get many benefits when travelling on Karnataka’s government buses:
- Save Money: No bus fare means big financial relief, especially for daily travelers.
- Better Safety: Encourages women to travel on government buses known for regulated and secure services.
- More Mobility: Makes it easier to access education, jobs, and other chances without worrying about transport costs.
By removing travel costs, the scheme helps women socially and economically, encouraging their independence and growth.
Government’s Role and Political Background Around the Scheme
The Shakti Scheme is one of five guarantee schemes announced during the 2023 Assembly elections, showing the government’s focus on inclusive welfare. However, political tensions came with its implementation and related state issues.
Official Statements and Political Responses
On the same day as the 500th crore ticket event, CM Siddaramaiah said that he, his cabinet members, and Congress MLAs would not attend the foundation stone laying of the Kalasavalli-Ambargondlu Bridge in Shivamogga district. This was a protest against the Centre’s refusal to postpone the event despite requests, seen as a break of protocol.
“I had called Nitin Gadkari and asked him to postpone the program. He said he would postpone it. But now, bowing to pressure from local BJP leaders, they are going ahead with the event,” Siddaramaiah explained.
“Congress MLAs from the region, the District Minister, and the Minister for Public Works are all staying away. They are deliberately creating a rift between the central and state governments,” he added.
Congress MP Surdeep Singh Surjewala also criticized the BJP-led Central government for how it treats Karnataka, accusing it of ignoring the state’s development needs and disrespecting its people.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | June 11, 2023 |
| 500th Crore Ticket Distribution Date | 14 July 2025 |
| Chief Minister | Siddaramaiah |
| Deputy Chief Minister | DK Shivakumar |
| Transport Minister | Ramalinga Reddy |
| Official Scheme Website | transport.karnataka.gov.in |
If you are a woman living in Karnataka, check local government bus schedules and take advantage of free travel under the Shakti Scheme to make your daily trips easier and more affordable.