The free travel in the S.T bus to the disabled persons was introduced by the Director Social Defence under Department of Social Justice Empowerment of Government of Gujarat on November 15. The scheme provides free travel to persons with disabilities (PwDs) on all inter-district routes operated by the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC). This includes travel outside Gujarat. These schemes are entirely financed by the Government of Gujarat.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Free Travel: PwDs can travel free of cost on all types of buses operated by GSRTC across Gujarat.
- Out-of-State Travel: Beneficiaries are allowed free travel up to the last stop of routes extending outside Gujarat.
- Eligibility Card: Beneficiaries are issued a travel eligibility card by the District Social Defense Officer upon successful application approval.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Gujarat.
- The applicant must have a certified disability of 40% or more.
Application Process
Online Procedure
Eligible applicants can follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official e-Samaj Kalyan Portal: e-Samaj Kalyan Portal.
- Register:
- Click on ‘Please Register Here’ under the Citizen Login tab.
- Enter details like Full Name (as per Aadhaar), Gender, Date of Birth, Aadhaar Number, Email ID, and Caste.
- Click on Register.
- Login: Use your registered User ID and Password to log in.
- Update Profile: Update your User Profile with all mandatory details.
- Select Scheme: Choose the “Free Travel in S.T Bus for Disabled Persons” scheme from the home page.
- Fill Application: Complete the application form, upload the required documents, and agree to the terms & conditions.
- Submit Application: Save and submit the form.
- Print Confirmation: Take a printout of the application form and note the application number to track the application status.
Required Documents
- Passport-size Photograph
- Aadhaar Card (copy)
- Proof of Residence (e.g., Ration Card, Electricity Bill, Driving License, Election Card)
- Proof of Age (e.g., School Leaving Certificate, Birth Certificate, Medical Certificate)
- Disability Certificate (issued by District Civil Surgeon/Medical Superintendent indicating the percentage of disability)
- Other Relevant Documents as required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for free travel under this scheme?
Persons with a disability of 40% or more who are residents of Gujarat are eligible. - What are the benefits of this scheme?
The scheme offers free travel on all GSRTC buses, including routes that extend outside Gujarat. - What types of buses are covered?
All types of buses operated by GSRTC are included in the scheme. - Are there limitations on travel destinations?
Beneficiaries can travel to the last stop of bus routes, even if the route extends outside Gujarat. - How is eligibility determined?
Eligibility is based on proof of residence, certified disability (40% or more), and other required documentation. - Who issues the eligibility card?
The District Social Defense Officer issues the card after approving the application. - Is the scheme funded by the government?
Yes, the scheme is fully funded by the Government of Gujarat.
Sources and References
- Scheme Details
- E-samaj Kalyan Porta
- Official Scheme Details: e-Samaj Kalyan Portal