Bhubaneswar, Dec 26: The Odisha government has approved free bus travel for school students under the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) scheme, replacing the existing 50 per cent fare concession, officials said.

The Commerce and Transport Department issued a notification following a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on August 21, 2025, to review key policy decisions and implementation strategies of the School and Mass Education Department.

According to the notification, the decision has been taken to improve access to schools and reduce dropouts caused by long travel distances. Under the revised arrangement, all school students will be entitled to free travel on both non-AC and AC buses operating under the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva scheme.

A zero-value ticket will be generated through the Electronic Ticket Issuing Machine (ETIM) for eligible students on production of a valid student identity card or by wearing the prescribed school uniform. The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) has been directed to make the necessary software modifications to enable issuance of zero tickets.

The notification further stated that existing bus routes and timings will be reviewed by OSRTC to ensure that the maximum number of schools are covered under the scheme. Officials said this rationalisation is aimed at making public transport more accessible and student-friendly across the state.

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The Mukhyamantri Bus Seva scheme was launched to strengthen public transport connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The move to provide free travel is expected to ease the financial burden on families and encourage regular school attendance, officials said.