The ‘Priyadarshini’ free bus travel scheme for women received an enthusiastic launch in Thrissur on Monday (June 15, 2026), marking what Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala described as a “golden moment” in Kerala’s history.

The district-level inauguration of the State government’s Indira Guarantee initiative was held at the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) depot here, where the Minister officially flagged off the scheme.

Mr. Chennithala said that despite the severe financial challenges faced by KSRTC, the government has prioritised women’s empowerment through this initiative. The scheme aims to ensure women’s right to travel freely and safely in society, he added.

Highlighting the role of women in strengthening families through education and employment, the Minister said the programme stands as a significant recognition of women’s power under the UDF-led government.

Following the inauguration, Mr. Chennithala boarded a Palakkad–Thrissur town-to-town bus and travelled as a passenger from the KSRTC stand to Thekkinkadu Maidan, even purchasing a ticket for the journey. The atmosphere was festive, with women passengers celebrating the occasion, while officials distributed sweets among travellers.

In a symbolic gesture, the first ‘zero ticket’ under the scheme in Thrissur was issued by woman conductor A.S. Shyla. MLA Rajan J. Pallan presided over the function.