Odisha to Strengthen Mission Shakti, Women SHG Role in Mukhyamantri Bus Seva

Bhubaneswar, December 20: The Odisha government on Saturday underlined the need to further strengthen the participation of Mission Shakti and Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) to enhance public transport service delivery across the State.

The focus was highlighted during a State-level Steering Committee meeting on MBS chaired by Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department, Usha Padhee. While reviewing ongoing reforms and charting the next phase of the flagship public transport programme, Padhee stressed the importance of reorganising bus routes based on district-level inputs to improve connectivity to key public institutions such as schools, hospitals and other essential services.

The meeting reviewed a range of policy and operational interventions aimed at improving service efficiency, ensuring affordability and strengthening last-mile connectivity in both urban and rural areas. Special emphasis was placed on the engagement of Women SHGs under MBS, with SHG conductors playing a key role in improving service quality while creating women-led livelihood opportunities.

Discussions also covered ticket fare revisions and passenger concessions to balance affordability with financial sustainability. The Steering Committee reaffirmed the continuation of free bus travel for students, reiterating the State government’s commitment to equitable access to education and mobility.

The Committee examined the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms for better coordination, monitoring and accountability. It also deliberated on the rationalisation of MBS routes to optimise coverage, reduce overlaps and enhance operational efficiency, along with revision of Gross Cost Contract (GCC) rates for PPP operators to ensure operational viability while safeguarding public interest.

Reiterating the importance of Mission Shakti and Women SHG participation, Padhee said Mukhyamantri Bus Seva remains a cornerstone of Odisha’s vision for accessible, safe and sustainable public transport. The meeting concluded with directions to expedite the identified reforms and ensure coordinated implementation at both State and field levels to further expand the reach and impact of MBS across Odisha.