Overview
- Free travel applies on both AC and non-AC services operated under the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva, according to the notification.
- Conductors will issue zero-value tickets through Electronic Ticket Issue Machines after verifying a valid student identity card or uniform.
- The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation has been instructed to modify its ticketing software to enable the zero-fare process.
- OSRTC will revisit existing routes and timings to cover the maximum number of schools under the network.
- The policy shift follows approval at an August 21 high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to improve access and reduce distance-related dropouts.