Odisha Rolls Out Free Bus Travel for School Students Under Mukhyamantri Bus Seva
In a landmark move to strengthen education equity and reduce school dropouts, the Government of Odisha has announced free bus travel for school students across the state.
The initiative, part of the upgraded Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) scheme, replaces the earlier 50% concession with completely free rides on both AC and non-AC buses.
The decision was formalised through a notification issued by the Commerce & Transport Department on December 24, 2025, following a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in August.
The School & Mass Education Department had proposed the measure to address challenges faced by students travelling long distances to attend classes.
Students can avail of the benefit by presenting a valid student ID card or wearing their school uniform. A zero-value ticket will be generated via the Electronic Ticket Issue Machine (ETIM), ensuring seamless travel.
The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) has been directed to revise bus routes and timings to cover the maximum number of schools, extending the scheme’s reach to both rural and urban areas.
Officials emphasised that the initiative builds on an earlier directive issued in June 2025, which introduced concessions to promote public transport usage.
With this upgrade, Odisha positions itself as a frontrunner in inclusive education policy, potentially setting a model for other states in India.