In a significant move aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality, the state of Karnataka in India has launched a pioneering initiative called ‘Shakti.’ As part of this program, women in Karnataka are entitled to free bus travel within the state, covering all government-owned buses except AC and Volvo, including express bus services. The scheme allows women to travel up to 20 kilometers inside neighboring border states without any charge, further enhancing their accessibility and mobility. With this groundbreaking initiative, Karnataka aims to foster women’s empowerment, enhance their economic opportunities, and create a more inclusive society.
Expanded Opportunities for Women:
By providing free bus travel, the ‘Shakti’ program seeks to break down barriers that hinder women’s mobility, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The initiative recognizes that transportation plays a vital role in empowering women, allowing them to access educational institutions, job opportunities, healthcare facilities, and social services. By eliminating the cost associated with bus travel, ‘Shakti’ facilitates greater participation of women in various aspects of life, contributing to their overall socio-economic development.
Enhanced Accessibility and Safety:
The ‘Shakti’ scheme not only addresses financial constraints but also promotes the safety and security of women travelers. Public transportation, when easily accessible and affordable, becomes a safer option compared to other modes of travel. By encouraging women to utilize government buses, the initiative aims to create a conducive environment that prioritizes their safety and protects their rights.
Geographical Limitations and Border State Travel:
While the ‘Shakti’ scheme offers free travel within Karnataka, it has certain geographical limitations. Women can travel up to 20 kilometers inside the neighboring border states without incurring any charges. For instance, a woman traveling from Ballari, Karnataka, can enjoy free travel up to 20 kilometers inside Andhra Pradesh. However, inter-state bus travel beyond the stipulated distance will not be free of cost.
Implementation of Other Guarantees:
The ‘Shakti’ scheme is part of a comprehensive set of poll guarantees announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The government aims to launch four other initiatives alongside ‘Shakti,’ which include ‘Gruha Jyoti,’ ‘Anna Bhagya,’ ‘Gruha Lakshmi,’ and ‘Yuva Nidhi.’
1. Gruha Jyoti: Scheduled to be launched from Kalaburagi, this scheme offers 200 free units of electricity to domestic consumers, ensuring access to basic amenities and reducing the burden of household expenses.
2. Anna Bhagya: This scheme provides 10 kg of free rice or food grains to families below the poverty line (BPL), aimed at addressing food security issues and reducing hunger among vulnerable populations.
3. Gruha Lakshmi: With the objective of empowering women, this initiative offers monthly financial assistance of Rs. 2,000 to the head woman of a household, providing them with economic support and promoting their well-being.
4. Yuva Nidhi: Geared towards tackling unemployment, this scheme offers a monthly allowance of Rs. 3,000 to graduates and Rs. 1,500 to diploma holders who have not secured employment within six months of passing their exams.
Financial Viability and Opposition:
While these initiatives aim to improve the lives of citizens, concerns have been raised about the financial implications of implementing such ambitious programs. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed confidence in the state’s ability to fulfil these guarantees, emphasizing that the government is committed to their successful implementation.
