Imagine a world where a simple bus ride could transform the lives of millions of women, granting them financial freedom, better jobs, and stronger family ties. That’s exactly what Karnataka’s Shakti scheme has achieved, according to a groundbreaking survey—but it’s not without its critics. Here’s the part most people miss: while the program has been hailed as a game-changer, some argue it’s still falling short in key areas. Let’s dive in.
An independent survey of Karnataka’s Shakti free bus travel scheme for women reveals staggering results: over 91% of respondents reported improved financial situations, with more than 80% saving up to ₹1,000 weekly on commuting costs. But here’s where it gets controversial—while the scheme has undeniably boosted economic independence, mobility, and employment, challenges like overcrowding and poor bus stop accessibility threaten to undermine its success. Could this be a case of a brilliant idea struggling with execution?
The “Impact Evaluation of the Five Guarantees of the Karnataka Government”, led by policy consultant Tara Krishnaswamy in partnership with Lokniti–CSDS and Indus Action Initiatives, analyzed the scheme’s effectiveness over a year. The study surveyed 6,125 women heads of households across 15 districts and conducted in-depth interviews in five, focusing on gender-specific outcomes. The findings? Shakti recorded a 96% usage rate among beneficiaries—the highest of all five guarantees. For daily wage earners, free travel saved nearly a third of their weekly earnings, directly improving household finances.
But here’s the surprising twist: Shakti isn’t just about saving money. It’s reshaping women’s lives. About 83% of women reported better access to healthcare, while an equal number said family relationships improved due to easier travel to visit relatives. Nearly 72% felt more empowered, and two-thirds gained greater independence in travel decisions. Even more striking, 19% secured new or better jobs, with districts like Chikkamagaluru (44%), Bengaluru Urban (34%), and Kolar (28%) seeing women pursue higher-paying opportunities farther from home.
Yet, the debate rages on. Despite its successes, over 80% of respondents cited issues like distant bus stops and overcrowded buses causing delays. The report suggests increasing bus numbers, expanding routes, and improving accessibility—especially in Bengaluru Rural, where usage was lowest at 86%. It also calls for rebranding the scheme to emphasize its socio-economic impact rather than framing it as a political handout.
Here’s the question we’re left with: Is Shakti a revolutionary step toward gender equality, or does it need urgent fixes to truly fulfill its potential? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could shape the future of such initiatives.
