KSRTC Free Bus Pass Scheme for Women in Karnataka (ksrtc pass Shakti Scheme) – Full Guide
Introduction
The Karnataka state government has always been at the forefront of launching welfare schemes for its citizens, especially for women. One such initiative is the KSRTC Free Bus Pass Scheme for Women, also known as the Shakti Yojana. Introduced in 2023, this scheme allows women to travel free of cost on government-run buses across the state, helping empower them socially and economically.
2. What is the Shakti Scheme?
The Shakti Scheme is a free bus travel program launched by the Karnataka government, providing free-of-cost public transportation to all women residing in the state. It is applicable on non-premium KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, and NEKRTC buses.
The main goal of this scheme is to enhance mobility for women, reduce their transportation burden, and enable them to access education, jobs, and healthcare facilities without financial constraints.
3. Objectives of the Scheme
- To promote gender equality and women’s empowerment
- To reduce the financial burden of commuting on women and families
- To support women’s participation in the workforce
- To ensure safe and reliable transportation
- To increase accessibility to public services
4. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Shakti Free Bus Pass Scheme, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Karnataka
- Identify as female
- Have a valid Aadhaar Card linked with Karnataka address
- Be aged above 6 years (children below 6 usually travel free)
Note: There is no income limit to avail the scheme.
5. Documents Required
Applicants need to submit or upload the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card (with Karnataka address)
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Address proof (Ration Card / Voter ID if Aadhaar address is outdated)
- Category certificate (if claiming specific benefits)
6. How to Apply for the KSRTC Free Bus Pass (Shakti Smart Card)
While the scheme started immediately after announcement, the smart card application process was later initiated via the Seva Sindhu portal. Until the smart card is received, women can travel by showing their Aadhaar card.
7. Step-by-Step Online Application Process
You can apply for your Shakti Smart Card online in these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit Seva Sindhu Portal
Go to https://sevasindhugs.karnataka.gov.in
Step 2: Login or Register
Login using Aadhaar-based OTP or create a new account with your mobile number.
Step 3: Navigate to ‘KSRTC/BMTC Free Bus Pass for Women’
Click on the “Apply for Shakti Scheme” or search for the KSRTC Women’s Free Bus Pass option.
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
Enter:
- Name, Date of Birth
- Aadhaar number
- Address
- Upload photo and Aadhaar
- Select the transport corporation (KSRTC, BMTC, etc.)
Step 5: Submit and Acknowledge
Submit the form and note the acknowledgement number for tracking status.
Step 6: Wait for Approval and Smart Card Dispatch
Once verified, the smart card will be dispatched to your registered address.
8. Bus Services Covered under the Scheme
The following buses are covered under the Shakti Scheme:
- KSRTC: Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation
- BMTC: Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation
- NWKRTC: North-Western Karnataka RTC
- NEKRTC: North Eastern Karnataka RTC
These buses must be non-premium, meaning:
✅ Ordinary
✅ City services
✅ Suburban routes
Excluded buses:
❌ Rajahamsa
❌ Vajra (Volvo)
❌ Airavat / AC services
❌ Flybus or Sleeper coaches
9. Routes and Distance Limits
- The scheme is valid only within Karnataka’s borders.
- Women can travel inter-district or intra-city without any fare.
- For interstate buses, regular fare applies.
- Seat reservation for long-distance is 50% reserved for men.
10. Benefits of the Scheme
- Zero fare travel for lakhs of women
- Encourages education and employment opportunities
- Saves monthly expenses for working women and students
- Ensures safe and monitored travel options
- Boosts public transport use, reducing traffic and pollution
11. Exemptions and Limitations
- Not valid for premium buses or luxury coaches
- Pass can only be used by the registered person
- Smart card must be presented during travel (temporary Aadhaar until then)
- Valid only within Karnataka
12. Validity and Renewal
- Smart card is valid for 1 year initially
- Annual renewal can be done on the Seva Sindhu portal
- No charges apply for renewal
13. Challenges and Implementation Issues
Some early hurdles faced:
- Delay in smart card issuance
- Overcrowding in buses
- Revenue concerns from KSRTC due to reduced fare collections
- Need for strict identity verification to prevent misuse
The government has since streamlined card printing and staff training to improve efficiency.
14. Recent Updates (As of 2025)
- Over 2 crore women have availed the scheme
- Smart cards issued to over 70% applicants
- State government allocated an additional ₹3,000 crore for FY 2025–26
- Discussions underway to include college-going boys under limited free passes
15. Impact on Women and Society
The Shakti Scheme has:
- Increased women’s attendance in colleges and workplaces
- Helped rural women access markets and healthcare
- Reduced gender inequality in mobility
- Improved personal savings for women-headed households
- Built trust in government transport services
16. Role of KSRTC, NWKRTC, NEKRTC, and BMTC
All major government bus corporations are jointly implementing the scheme:
- KSRTC handles inter-district and rural buses
- BMTC manages city transport in Bengaluru
- NWKRTC & NEKRTC operate in Northern and Northeastern Karnataka
Staff are trained to assist female passengers under this scheme.
17. Government Budget Allocation and Costs
- The initial allocation was ₹2,000 crore
- For FY 2025–26, ₹3,000+ crore has been earmarked
- Daily travel by women exceeds 35 lakh trips
- Cost per passenger reimbursed to bus corporations
18. Public Feedback and Reception
- Majority of users, especially students and daily wage workers, welcomed the scheme
- Private operators have raised concerns about reduced passengers
- Activists hailed it as a progressive step for gender inclusion
- Some male passengers felt seat availability dropped marginally
19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use the Shakti card in BMTC Volvo buses?
No, only non-premium BMTC buses are covered.
Q2: Can I use someone else’s pass?
No, the pass is non-transferable.
Q3: What if my smart card is delayed?
Use Aadhaar card temporarily for free travel.
Q4: Can women from other states use this scheme?
Only Karnataka residents are eligible.
Q5: Is there an offline application process?
No, the application is fully online via Seva Sindhu.
Apply Now
The KSRTC Free Bus Pass Scheme for Women (Shakti Yojana) is a landmark step in Karnataka’s efforts to build an inclusive society. By offering free travel, the government has empowered lakhs of women across socio-economic backgrounds. While logistical challenges exist, the scheme continues to evolve and positively impact the lives of millions. Karnataka’s model could soon become a blueprint for other Indian states aiming at gender-focused mobility solutions.