Karnataka’s Shakti Scheme Under Scrutiny as NWKRTC Battles ₹988 Crore Pending Dues
Representational image via Deccan Hearld
Hubballi, Dec 12: Karnataka’s flagship five Guarantees programme, introduced by the Congress government to enhance public welfare, is now under criticism for its growing financial impact on state-run transport bodies. The Shakti Scheme — one of the most widely used initiatives offering free bus travel to women — has reportedly placed a major burden on the North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), which is yet to receive reimbursements amounting to ₹988 crore.
Background: The Promise and the Pressure
Launched statewide in June 2023, the Shakti Scheme aimed to boost women’s mobility and economic participation by allowing free travel across non-luxury buses in Karnataka. The policy has seen a massive uptake, particularly in northern districts such as Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkote, Haveri, Gadag and Uttara Kannada.
NWKRTC caters to more than 27 lakh passengers daily, of whom around 17 lakh are women travelling under the scheme. While the government has been reimbursing a portion of the cost, reports indicate that only 75% of the monthly dues are being consistently released. This gap has led to a substantial backlog piling up over the last two and a half years.
Mounting Challenges for NWKRTC
The delay in reimbursements has severely affected the corporation’s core operations. Officials say the strain is visible in multiple areas, including routine bus maintenance, fleet repairs, and timely payment of staff salaries.
NWKRTC Managing Director Priyanka confirmed concerns regarding the pending compensation, noting that while the government is assisting in fleet procurement and infrastructure, clearing the outstanding dues would “significantly ease the corporation’s financial burden.”
Political Reactions and Public Debate
Critics argue that although the Shakti Scheme has empowered millions of women, the financial model supporting it lacks sustainability. Transport unions have echoed similar concerns, pointing out that persistent losses could cripple essential services for rural passengers.
Government representatives, however, maintain that welfare initiatives require long-term adjustments and have reiterated their commitment to supporting transport corporations.
Analysis
The ongoing tussle between welfare spending and operational viability continues to dominate Karnataka’s policy conversations. Experts warn that if reimbursements remain delayed, transport bodies like NWKRTC may struggle to maintain efficiency, indirectly affecting the very beneficiaries the Shakti Scheme intends to support.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
Public welfare schemes thrive when backed by strong financial planning and timely execution. The Shakti Scheme has undeniably enabled millions of women to travel freely and safely, giving them unprecedented access to education, employment, and healthcare. However, unresolved dues and mounting operational pressures risk undermining the scheme’s long-term success. Karnataka’s transport sector is an essential public lifeline, particularly in rural districts, and ensuring its financial stability must remain a top priority for policymakers. Sustaining welfare benefits while maintaining institutional health requires clear budgeting, transparent execution, and consistent reimbursements. The state government’s next steps will determine whether Shakti remains a transformative policy or becomes a burden on public infrastructure.