In an effort to empower women and the third gender in Telangana, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) has introduced the “Maha Lakshmi Free Bus” program. This initiative, set to be launched by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, aims to provide women with free bus travel within the state, starting from the State Assembly grounds.
Eligibility and Zero Ticket
Women and the third gender can avail themselves of a “Zero Ticket” by presenting valid identity cards confirming their residential address.
There is no restriction on the distance they can travel within the state, but the free bus service is limited to interstate travel up to the state borders.
Initiation and Political Backing
The announcement of the Telangana Mahalakshmi Scheme was made by Rahul Gandhi as part of the Congress Party’s election manifesto on September 18, 2023.
Under this scheme, the party pledges to provide various financial and social security benefits to women in the state. Monthly financial assistance of Rs. 2,500 is promised, along with a subsidized petrol cylinder for Rs. 500.
Additionally, women will enjoy free transportation on RTC buses, contributing to their financial independence.
Scheme Details:
- Scheme Name: Telangana Mahalakshmi Scheme
- Launched by: Congress Party
- Introduced by: Rahul Gandhi
- State: Telangana
- Beneficiary: Telangana state Women
- Objective: To offer financial assistance
- Mode of application: Online and offline
- Official website: To be launched soon
Objectives of Mahalakshmi Scheme:
- Provide financial and social security benefits to women.
- Monthly cash assistance of Rs 2,500.
- Free bus transportation and subsidized gas cylinders.
- Encourage self-reliance among women.
- Elevate the status of women in society.
Benefits of the Scheme:
- Various perks for women in the state.
- Implementation commitment in the Congress party’s electoral manifesto.
- Subsidized petrol cylinders at Rs 500.
- Monthly financial support of Rs. 2,500 if the Congress Party wins power.
- Free RTC bus travel for women.
- Promotes women’s financial independence.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The scheme is expected to be accessible to female ministers and MLAs.
- Valid on specified bus services within the state.
- Available to all women who are residents of Telangana.
Required Documents:
- Passport size photograph
- Aadhar card
- Residence certificate
- Income certificate
- Email ID
- Mobile number, etc.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official website (yet to be launched).
- Click on the Telangana Mahalakshmi scheme.
- Fill in the application form with the required details.
- Upload necessary documents.
- Click on the submit button to complete the application process.
The Telangana Mahalakshmi Scheme is a significant step towards enhancing women’s financial situations and promoting their independence. Stay tuned for the official website launch for detailed application procedures.