Stree Shakti scheme completes one year; CM Naidu touts empowerment

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday marked the first anniversary of the Stree Shakti free bus travel scheme for women, calling it a step towards women empowerment and dignity. The day was celebrated as ‘Stree Shakti Year, Double Dignity’. Mr. Naidu travelled by an APSRTC bus from the Parade Grounds to his camp office after Independence Day events, interacting with women beneficiaries about their families and livelihoods.

Beneficiaries said the scheme had reduced their expenses and opened up opportunities. A fisherwoman reported saving Rs 4,000 a month, a woman from Nandyal said she saved Rs 1,500, and a handloom worker said it helped her travel for raw materials and marketing. The scheme, launched on August 15, 2025, offers free travel on five categories of APSRTC buses to girls, women and transgender persons domiciled in Andhra Pradesh.

Officials said 87 crore journeys have been recorded, with 24 lakh women travelling daily. The government spends Rs 8.53 crore a day, totaling Rs 3,095 crore so far. The scheme covers 7,631 of APSRTC's 9,978 buses, 76% of the fleet. Women’s share of travel has risen from 40% to 62%, and road accidents have reportedly declined.