In a major push for women’s empowerment and social inclusion, the Kerala government has announced that women and transgender individuals can travel free of cost on state-run buses starting June 15, 2026. Named the ‘Priyadarshini’ scheme, the initiative fulfills a key election promise made under the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) government’s ‘Indira Guarantee’ welfare programme.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan made the official announcement following a high-level Cabinet meeting, highlighting that the benefit will be available to all women and transgender individuals across the state, completely irrespective of their age, caste, or financial background. To avail of the free ride, passengers simply need to carry and present any valid government-issued photo identity card, such as an Aadhaar card, to the conductor.
Phased Rollout and Financial Backing
The ambitious scheme is being implemented in a phased manner. For the first 100 trial days, the free travel facility will be strictly limited to ordinary bus services operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Fast Passenger, Super Fast, and premium long-distance services are excluded from this initial phase to help the state monitor passenger travel patterns and manage operational challenges.
Even with this restriction, the state exchequer expects a substantial financial commitment. The scheme is projected to cost the government over ₹60 crore monthly, translating to nearly ₹800 crore annually. However, Chief Minister Satheesan and Transport Minister C.P. John assured the public that this financial weight would not burden the already cash-strapped KSRTC. The state government plans to fully reimburse the transport corporation with a direct financial subsidy over and above the regular funds already provided for employee salaries and pensions.
Looking Ahead
An expert committee will closely track the trial period to evaluate the financial impact. If KSRTC’s revenue improves through new commercial ventures and optimized scheduling over the next six months, the government actively plans to expand the free travel benefits to higher-category fast and superfast services in the second phase.