Karnataka gives students free nonpremium bus travel from June 12
Big news for students in Karnataka: starting June 12, 2026, all school and college students can ride state-run nonpremium busses for free.
This update will complement the existing Shakti scheme, which already gave free rides to women, transgender people and students, so now male students are included too.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar says, "This is the era of the youth. Students were asking why free bus travel was available only to girls. We are now providing free bus passes to all students. School and college students will be able to travel free of charge."
Apply via Seva Sindhu portal
Applying is simple: just head to the Seva Sindhu portal online.
The process hasn't changed: you'll need to meet academic and distance requirements.
If you already bought a pass for the current academic year, expect a refund within 15 days.