Karnataka Shakti Scheme — Free Bus Travel for Women (2026)

The Shakti Scheme is a flagship initiative by the Government of Karnataka that provides free bus travel to all women on state-run buses. Launched on 11 June 2023 by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as one of the five guarantee schemes, Shakti has become one of the most widely used welfare programmes in the state.

Since its launch, crores of free trips have been availed by women across Karnataka, saving families thousands of rupees every month on commuting costs.

Who Is Eligible?

The Shakti scheme is available to all women — there is no income limit, age restriction, or caste-based criterion.

Eligibility Criteria

• Gender: Women and transgender persons
• Residency: Must be a resident of Karnataka (Aadhaar address in Karnataka)
• Shakti Smart Card: Must possess a valid Shakti Smart Card issued by the transport corporation
• No income limit: The scheme is universal — available to all women regardless of income

Note: Men, including senior citizens and students, are not eligible under this scheme.

Which Buses Are Covered?

The Shakti scheme covers all non-AC (ordinary) services operated by Karnataka's four state road transport corporations:

What's NOT Covered

• ❌ AC buses (Airavat, Airavat Club Class, Flybus, AC Sleeper)
• ❌ Premium/luxury services (Ambari, Corona)
• ❌ Reserved/booked tickets on KSRTC online booking
• ❌ Private buses — only government-run state transport buses
• ❌ Interstate services — only routes within Karnataka

How to Get the Shakti Smart Card

Documents Required

1. Aadhaar Card (with Karnataka address)
2. Recent passport-size photograph
3. Mobile number linked to Aadhaar

Application Process

Option 1: At the Bus Depot (Walk-in)

1. Visit your nearest KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, or NEKRTC bus depot/station
2. Go to the Shakti Card counter (dedicated counters are available at major depots)
3. Fill in the application form
4. Submit your Aadhaar card copy and photograph
5. Biometric verification (fingerprint/iris scan) is done on the spot
6. The Shakti Smart Card is issued immediately or within a few days

Option 2: Online via Seva Sindhu

1. Visit sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in
2. Register/login with your mobile number
3. Search for "Shakti Smart Card" in the services
4. Fill in the application form with personal details
5. Upload Aadhaar and photograph
6. Submit the application
7. Collect the card from the designated depot

Cost: The Shakti Smart Card is issued free of charge. No fees are required.

How to Use the Shakti Card

Using the Shakti card for free travel is simple:

1. Board any non-AC government bus (KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, or NEKRTC)
2. Show your Shakti Smart Card to the conductor when asked
3. The conductor will swipe/tap your card on the Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM)
4. A free ticket is generated — keep it until you deboard
5. No cash payment is required for the journey

Important Rules

• 🪪 You must carry the Shakti card every time you travel — no card, no free travel
• 🚌 The card is non-transferable — only the registered woman can use it
• 🎫 You must collect the ticket from the conductor even though the ride is free
• 📍 Valid only for travel within Karnataka on eligible bus services
• 🔄 The card can be used for unlimited trips — there is no daily or monthly cap

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for the Shakti card?

No. Women of all ages can apply. Minor girls can also get the card with guardian details.

Can I use the Shakti card on Volvo/AC buses?

No. The scheme covers only non-AC ordinary services. For AC and premium buses, you must purchase a regular ticket.

I don't have a Karnataka Aadhaar address. Can I still apply?

No. Your Aadhaar must have a Karnataka address. If you've recently moved, update your Aadhaar address first.

Can I use the card on BMTC Vajra (AC) buses?

No. BMTC Vajra services are AC buses and are not covered under Shakti.

What if I lose my Shakti card?

Visit the nearest bus depot with your Aadhaar card to apply for a duplicate card.

Can I use the Shakti card for interstate travel (e.g., Bengaluru to Chennai)?

No. The card is valid only for routes within Karnataka.

Key Highlights at a Glance

Useful Links

• KSRTC Official Website: www.ksrtc.in
• BMTC Official Website: www.mybmtc.com
• Seva Sindhu Portal: sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in

Last updated: 16 February 2026. Information is based on the latest available government guidelines. Rules and processes may change — always verify at your nearest bus depot or official website.