Triumphant Milestone for Karnataka Shakti Scheme: 500 Crore Tickets Distributed

Bengaluru, Karnataka – In a significant moment for social welfare in the state, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently celebrated a remarkable achievement: the distribution of the 500th crore ticket under the ambitious Karnataka Shakti Scheme. This flagship initiative, providing free bus travel for women across Karnataka, marks a pivotal step towards empowering women and enhancing public accessibility.

The Journey of the Karnataka Shakti Scheme

The Karnataka Shakti Scheme was a key promise of the ruling government during the 2023 Assembly elections. Launched officially on June 11, 2023, shortly after the new administration took office, the scheme quickly became one of the most impactful welfare programs in the state’s history. Its primary objective is to alleviate the financial burden of transportation for women, thereby facilitating easier access to education, employment, and essential services. The scheme’s success is evident in its widespread adoption, culminating in this impressive 500-crore ticket milestone.

A Symbolic Distribution under the Karnataka Shakti Scheme

The celebratory event saw Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accompanied by Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, personally hand over the symbolic 500th crore ticket to a woman passenger in Bengaluru. The distribution, which took place near the Windsor Manor Bridge, was also attended by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, and other prominent dignitaries, underscoring the government’s commitment to the Karnataka Shakti Scheme. This public demonstration served as a testament to the scheme’s reach and its positive reception among the populace.

Impact and Reach of the Karnataka Shakti Scheme

Since its inception, the Karnataka Shakti Scheme has transformed daily commutes for millions of women. By eliminating bus fares, it has not only provided direct financial relief but also boosted women’s participation in various sectors by making travel more feasible. The consistent increase in ticket distribution numbers highlights the scheme’s growing popularity and its effective implementation across state-run bus services. The Karnataka Shakti Scheme is designed to be inclusive, benefiting women from all walks of life.

Political Context Surrounding the Karnataka Shakti Scheme’s Success

While the celebration of the Karnataka Shakti Scheme’s milestone was a moment of pride for the state government, it also unfolded amidst a backdrop of ongoing political discussions concerning state and central relations. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, on the same day, conveyed his government’s decision to boycott a foundation stone laying ceremony for a bridge project, citing protocol violations and a lack of consultation from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

This protest, explained by the Chief Minister, stemmed from the Union Ministry’s refusal to postpone the event despite his personal request to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Congress MP Surdeep Singh Surjewala further echoed these sentiments, accusing the Centre of insulting the people of Karnataka by perceived indifference to state government protocols and financial allocations, citing issues like GST revenue distribution and funding for projects such as the Upper Bhadra project.

Despite these political undercurrents, the primary focus of the day remained the significant achievement of the Karnataka Shakti Scheme, showcasing the state government’s dedication to its welfare initiatives. The 500th crore ticket distribution under the Karnataka Shakti Scheme stands as a powerful symbol of progress and empowerment for women in Karnataka.