In a significant move towards women's empowerment, the ruling Congress party in Karnataka has successfully launched the "Shakti" scheme, one of its five election promises. This groundbreaking initiative allows women in the state to travel for free on government buses, providing a boost to their mobility and financial independence. With an estimated 41.8 lakh women passengers set to benefit daily, the scheme is projected to cost the state exchequer around Rs 4,051.56 crore annually.
The inauguration of the scheme took place at the esteemed Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, and other government officials in attendance. The launch ceremony featured the unveiling of the Shakti scheme's logo and the symbolic distribution of Shakti smart cards to five women. To avail of the benefits of the scheme, women can apply for the Shakti Smart Card through the 'Seva Sindhu' government portal.
By eliminating travel expenses for working women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the Shakti scheme aims to provide financial relief that can be utilized for household necessities. The Congress-led government is committed to strengthening women and ensuring their active participation in economic activities. In line with this vision, the launch of the Shakti scheme has brought smiles to the faces of women across the state.
In response to criticism from the opposition, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the timely implementation of the guarantees and accused the detractors of attempting to confuse the public. He affirmed that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to implement the remaining guarantees, including 200 units of free power for all households (Gruha Jyoti), monthly assistance of Rs 2,000 for the woman head of each family (Gruha Lakshmi), free rice distribution to below poverty line households (Anna Bhagya), and financial support for unemployed graduates and diploma holders between the ages of 18 and 25 (YuvaNidhi).
Under the Shakti scheme, women residing in Karnataka, including girl students, can avail themselves of free bus travel within the state. The service is applicable to city transport, ordinary, and express buses operated by the state-owned Road Transport Corporations, which collectively manage 18,609 buses. Buses participating in the scheme display prominent "Free travel for women" stickers, ensuring easy identification for women passengers.
The scheme stands firmly against discrimination, as it is open to all women without any distinction based on caste or religion. Gender minorities are also included in the scheme, reflecting the government's commitment to inclusivity. It is important to note that luxury and inter-state buses are not covered by the scheme.
To facilitate hassle-free travel, the Chief Minister clarified that passengers travelling in RTC buses between districts within Karnataka won't be charged when crossing the state border, provided the distance does not exceed 20 kilometres. Until the distribution of smart cards is complete, women can avail themselves of free bus travel by presenting a valid photo identity card issued by the Government of India, Government of Karnataka, or government-owned offices and obtaining a zero-value ticket.
Following the official launch, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, and other dignitaries embarked on a BMTC bus journey accompanied by select women passengers. They issued zero-value tickets, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Women's Day celebrations, complete with flowers and sweets for female passengers.
In conjunction with the Shakti scheme, the government has instructed road transport corporations to reserve 50% of bus seats for men, striking a balance in public transportation accessibility.
