Karnataka's 'Shakti' Scheme Offering Free Bus Services for Women Launched | Check FAQs Here

The Karnataka government successfully launched its 'Shakti' scheme on Sunday, marking the fulfillment of the first of its five pre-poll guarantees. The launch event took place in front of the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Karnataka's 'Shakti' Scheme

What is the 'Shakti' scheme launched by the Congress-led government in Karnataka?
The 'Shakti' scheme is an initiative by the Karnataka government that offers free travel to women and transgender individuals in state buses.

Who launched the 'Shakti' scheme?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy launched the scheme outside the Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru.

What is the objective of the free bus travel scheme?
The scheme aims to promote social equality and benefit minorities, women, and marginalized sections of society. It is expected to increase women's participation in the workforce, as women in India have historically faced exploitation and limited opportunities.

What documents are required to avail of the free travel benefit?
Women need to show a valid ID proof and address proof, such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, or any other government-issued photo ID with an address.

What are 'pink tickets'?
"Pink tickets" are issued when there is a technical issue with the ticket issuing machines. These manually issued tickets facilitate travel until the machine is fixed.

How can women obtain 'Shakti Smart Cards'?
Women can apply for 'Shakti Smart Cards' through the Seva Sindhu portal starting from June 15. These smart cards will be issued to women travelers within the next three months.

When can women start applying for the scheme on the 'Seva Sindhu' portal?
Women residents of Karnataka can start applying for the 'Shakti' scheme on the 'Seva Sindhu' government portal from June 11.

How long does it take to receive the smart card after applying?
After applying on the 'Seva Sindhu' portal, women can expect to receive the smart card within three months.

Can women use other government-issued ID proofs until they receive the smart cards?
Yes, women can use any government-issued ID proof with a photo and address until they receive the 'Shakti Smart Cards'.

Will the bus schedules be adjusted to accommodate the increase in women travelers?
Yes, if needed, the schedules of buses can be modified to meet the increased demand for women travelers on specific routes. The KSRTC Mysuru division has taken steps to add 1,894 buses to the existing fleet to cater to the demand.

What were the other poll guarantees made by the Congress before the elections?
The Congress promised several initiatives, including 200 units of free power under the Gruha Jyothi scheme, monthly financial assistance of ₹2,000 for women heads of families under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, free bus travel for women under the Gruha Shakti scheme, financial support for unemployed graduates under the Yuva Nidhi scheme, and food grains for below poverty line families under the Anna Bhagya scheme.

When will these promises be implemented?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that all five guarantees will be implemented in the current financial year.