The Andhra Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has approved the ‘Stri Shakti’ scheme that allows free bus travel for women, girls, and transgenders in the state. This scheme will be officially launched on August 15 (Independence Day) as part of the government's “Super Six” promises.
This initiative will help around 26.95 lakh people every day and is expected to cost the government around ₹162 crore per month or ₹1,942 crore per year. Women, girls, and transgenders who are residents of Andhra Pradesh can travel free of cost on APSRTC buses like PalleVelugu, Ultra Pallevelugu, City Ordinary, Express, and Metro Express services. To get this benefit, they must show valid ID proof like Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Ration Card.
However, this scheme does not apply to interstate buses, private contract services, or tour buses. Around 6,700 buses (74% of APSRTC fleet) will be available for this free service. The government also plans to add 3,000 new electric buses this year and another 1,400 in the next two years. For safety, body cameras will be given to women conductors and CCTV cameras will be installed in buses. Around 1.42 crore women are expected to benefit annually.
Other Cabinet Decisions:
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Maoist Ban Extended: The Cabinet has extended the ban on CPI (Maoist) and its front organizations under the AP Public Security Act for another year due to ongoing threats and destructive activities.
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LIFT Policy 4.0 (2024–2029): IT companies and developers will get land at just 99 paise per acre under this new tech policy.
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2025–28 Bar Policy: A new bar policy was also approved. Bars will be allotted through a lottery system, and 10% of bars will be reserved for toddy workers with 50% concession in fees. Business hours are fixed from 10 AM to 11 PM.
