Bhubaneswar, Sep 18: In a landmark move to promote inclusive education, the Odisha government has approved free bus travel for all school students under the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva scheme.

The initiative, aimed at removing transportation barriers for students, was formalized through a directive from the School and Mass Education Department to the Commerce and Transport Department.

All school students from across the state are now eligible to avail free travel on Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) buses.

To access the service, students must either present a valid school ID card or wear their school uniform. The scheme is designed to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to lack of transport facilities.

To maximize the reach of the initiative, OSRTC has been requested to revise bus routes and timings based on student commuting patterns. District Education Officers have been advised to provide detailed data to facilitate this re-mapping, ensuring that the service benefits the maximum number of students.

The move has sparked widespread joy among students and parents, especially in remote and rural areas where transportation remains a major hurdle. Many students have expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for this student-friendly initiative, which is expected to significantly boost school attendance and reduce dropout rates.

Officials have emphasized the importance of monitoring and coordination between departments to ensure smooth implementation. This initiative not only strengthens Odisha’s commitment to accessible education but also sets a benchmark in citizen-centric governance by combining infrastructure with empathy.