Karnataka Extends Free Bus Travel Scheme to Male School and College Students
The Karnataka government has officially extended its free bus pass scheme to male school and college students across the state. Previously restricted to women and female students under the ‘Shakti’ scheme, this expansion will now allow male students to travel free of charge between their residences and educational institutions using state-run road transport corporation buses.
This decision brings significant relief to thousands of Malayali students pursuing higher education in Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka. Unlike the previous phase of the Shakti scheme which was restricted to those with official Karnataka identity proofs, the updated initiative includes out-of-state students. To avail of this benefit, non-resident students must submit their college documents along with a local address proof, such as a rent agreement or electricity bill.
Students can apply online through the official Seva Sindhu portal or in person at Karnataka One and Grama One service centers by paying a nominal service fee of Rs 30. Once approved, the physical passes can be collected from KSRTC bus stands or service centers. The passes are valid for 10 months for regular school and college students, and 12 months for ITI students, covering ordinary services of KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC. Any student who recently purchased a paid pass will receive a refund directly into their bank account within 15 days.
