Kerala Approves Priyadarshini Free Travel Scheme

The Kerala Cabinet approved the Priyadarshini scheme on 10 June 2026 for free travel for women on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation ordinary services. The scheme will begin on 15 June 2026 across Kerala and will cover women of all ages and income levels, along with transgender persons.

Scheme Coverage and Eligibility

The free travel facility will apply only to KSRTC ordinary bus services in the first phase. The benefit will be available on a state-wide basis and will not be limited by income criteria or age criteria.

Financial Provisions and Compensation

The scheme is expected to cost KSRTC more than ₹60 crore per month. Annual expenditure estimates range from about ₹750 crore to ₹800 crore, while some estimates place the figure at ₹712 crore for ordinary buses and up to ₹1,300 crore if extended to all categories. The state government will fully compensate KSRTC for the revenue loss.

Trial Period and Possible Expansion

The scheme will run on a trial basis for the first 100 days. After this period, the government may consider extending the benefit to fast and superfast buses, depending on KSRTC’s financial position and revenue generation.

Important Facts for Exams

• KSRTC stands for Kerala State Road Transport Corporation, which operates state-run bus services in Kerala.
• Ordinary bus services are the basic category of public buses in KSRTC’s service structure.
• Transgender persons are included in the eligibility list for the Priyadarshini scheme.
• The scheme is linked to the “Indira Guarantees” announced by the Congress-led United Democratic Front government.

Related Static Facts

Kerala is a southern Indian state with Thiruvananthapuram as its capital. Public transport subsidies in India are often implemented through state transport corporations and state budget support.