TNI Bureau: The Odisha government has approved free bus travel for school students under the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) scheme, replacing the earlier provision of 50 per cent concession in ticket fares.

According to a notification issued by the Commerce and Transport Department, the decision was taken after careful consideration of a proposal from the School and Mass Education Department. The approval was granted during a high-level meeting held on August 21, 2025, under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister to review key policy decisions and implementation strategies.

As per the notification, school students will now be eligible for completely free travel in both Non-AC and AC bus services operating under the MBS scheme. A zero-value ticket will be generated through the Electronic Ticket Issue Machine (ETIM) upon presentation of a valid student identity card or if the student is wearing a school uniform.

The move aims to improve access to schools and reduce student dropouts caused by long travel distances. The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) has been directed to make necessary software modifications to implement the zero-ticket system. It has also been instructed to revisit existing bus routes and timings to ensure maximum coverage of schools.

All other provisions of the earlier resolution will remain unchanged. The notification has been ordered to be published in the extraordinary issue of the Odisha Gazette and circulated to all departments, heads of departments and the Accountant General, Odisha.