Kerala's 'Priyadarshini' scheme: Women, transgender persons get free bus travel
The Kerala government on Monday launched its flagship ‘Priyadarshini’ scheme, providing free travel on ordinary buses operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) for all women and transgender persons. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan inaugurated the programme at the Thampanoor Central Bus Station in Thiruvananthapuram around 9.30 a.m.
The inaugural journey, carrying the Chief Minister and other dignitaries from the bus station to the Secretariat, was operated entirely by women crew. The gesture underscored the scheme’s stated aim of promoting women’s empowerment, a central theme of the government’s initiative.
The scheme, billed by the state government as a significant step towards women’s empowerment, covers all women and transgender persons. It is applicable on ordinary buses operated by KSRTC across the state. Express and AC services are not covered under this initiative.
According to the government, the primary objective is to reduce the financial burden of commuting for women and transgender persons and to encourage greater use of public transport. The scheme is expected to enhance access to education, employment and healthcare for these groups.
Kerala has historically been a pioneer in social welfare programmes, from land reforms to universal health coverage. The Priyadarshini scheme continues this tradition by addressing transport equity. The inclusion of transgender persons is particularly notable, as they are often marginalised and face additional hurdles in public spaces, including transport.
Similar free bus travel schemes for women have been introduced in other Indian states, underscoring a growing recognition that affordable mobility is essential for social and economic participation. Kerala’s decision to explicitly include transgender persons in the scheme sets it apart.
The initial reaction from women’s groups and transgender rights organisations has been positive, with many welcoming the move as a progressive step. However, some have asked for clarity on the documentation required to avail of the free travel, and whether any cap on the number of trips will be imposed. The government has not yet issued detailed guidelines.
KSRTC, which operates a vast network of buses, will be responsible for implementing the scheme. The corporation faces financial constraints, and the cost of the initiative will need to be covered through state subsidies. Officials have not disclosed the anticipated financial outlay.
The launch event was attended by senior ministers, bureaucrats and representatives of civil society. The all-women crew operated the bus from Thampanoor Central Bus Station to the Secretariat, passing through some of the city’s main thoroughfares. In these ways, the inaugural ride served as a visible demonstration of the scheme’s goals.
As the scheme goes into effect, its impact will depend on consistent implementation, adequate funding and public awareness. For now, it represents a concrete step towards making public transport more inclusive and equitable in Kerala.
