What is the story about?
The Karnataka government has approved a scheme to provide free bus passes for school and college students travelling on state-run transport services. The benefit
will cover buses operated by BMTC, KSRTC, NWKRTC and KKRTC, ensuring statewide access for students. The decision is expected to benefit lakhs of students across Karnataka, particularly those from rural and low-income households who rely heavily on public transport to reach educational institutions.
Scheme To Cost Exchequer Rs 300 Crore Annually
According to official estimates, the scheme will cost the state exchequer around ₹286 crore annually, along with an additional ₹15 crore earmarked for processing charges and accident relief fund contributions. Officials said the move is part of the government’s broader push to improve educational access and reduce dropout rates linked to transport difficulties.
The government has clarified that existing norms for student bus pass issuance will remain unchanged, and applications will continue to be processed through the Seva Sindhu portal, ensuring a fully digital and streamlined system.
Students who have already applied and paid for bus passes prior to the scheme’s implementation will receive full refunds, officials confirmed. The relief measure is expected to provide immediate financial respite to thousands of families.
Benefit Extended Beyond Karnataka Boundaries
Significantly, the scheme also extends beyond state boundaries. Students residing in Karnataka’s border districts who travel to neighbouring states for education, as well as students from neighbouring states studying in Karnataka, will also be eligible under the programme.
Transport department sources indicated that the decision builds on Karnataka’s existing welfare-oriented mobility policies and follows earlier expansions in concessional and free travel schemes.
With rising student dependence on public transport, officials said the initiative is expected to improve attendance, reduce commuting stress, and promote higher enrolment in higher education institutions.
