The Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Gram Gadi Yojana, initiated by the Transport Department, Government of Jharkhand, aims to improve rural connectivity by incentivizing private bus operators. The scheme focuses on providing efficient transportation for residents in remote villages, linking them to essential services like schools, colleges, medical facilities, and commercial centers. This initiative not only benefits rural residents but also provides financial assistance and incentives to private bus operators.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Financial Assistance:
Operators receive per-kilometer financial support based on bus seating capacity:- 33 to 42 seats: ₹18 per km.
- 25 to 32 seats: ₹14.50 per km.
- 13 to 24 seats: ₹10.50 per km.
- 7 to 12 seats: ₹7.50 per km.
- Tax and Fee Waivers:
- Exemption from:
- Road Tax
- Permit Fee (₹1)
- Application Fee (₹1)
- Registration Fee (₹1)
- Fitness Inspection Fee (₹1)
- Exemption from:
- Priority Access:
- Rural buses are prioritized at government bus stands.
- Exempted from stand fees, tolls, and municipal entry fees.
- Route Permits:
- Permits available for routes up to 125 km, connecting villages to block/district headquarters and essential services.
- Subsidies:
- Subsidies on fuel costs (diesel) for operational support.
- Renewal Options:
- Permits are renewable every five years based on satisfactory performance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Bus Operator:
- The applicant must be a private bus operator registered in Jharkhand.
- Vehicle Requirements:
- Operators must use new light/medium commercial vehicles (seating capacity: 7–42 seats, excluding driver).
- Vehicles must comply with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and have either Hard Top or Soft Top body designs.
- Route Preference:
- Priority is given to vehicles connecting rural routes to block/district headquarters, schools, colleges, hospitals, and main roads.
- Permit Conditions:
- Operators must adhere to approved routes and the fare structure prescribed by the government.
- Exclusions:
- Operators with a history of violating permit conditions are not eligible.
Application Process
The application process is conducted offline.
Steps to Apply:
- Obtain Application Form:
- Collect the form from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or download it from the official transport department website.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all required details, including personal, vehicle, and route information.
- Attach Required Documents:
- Attach all necessary documents (see below).
- Submit Application:
- Submit the completed form along with a nominal fee of ₹1 at the respective RTO.
Application Review and Approval:
- The application is reviewed by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA).
- Upon approval, permits are issued for the specified route.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Passport-size Photograph
- Aadhaar Card (Proof of Identity)
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (For new vehicles)
- Driver’s License
- Permit Application Form (Duly filled and signed)
- Vehicle Fitness Certificate
- Route Map/Proposal (Showing the rural route the bus will operate on)
- Bank Account Details
- Affidavit of Compliance (Declaring adherence to scheme rules)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the objective of this scheme?
The scheme aims to improve rural connectivity and provide financial assistance to private bus operators. - Who can apply for this scheme?
Private bus operators registered in Jharkhand who meet the eligibility criteria. - What financial assistance is provided?
Operators receive per-kilometer financial support based on the seating capacity of their buses. - Are there any tax exemptions?
Yes, operators are exempt from road tax, permit fee, application fee, registration fee, and fitness inspection fee. - What is the maximum distance allowed for rural routes?
Operators can apply for routes up to 125 km. - What happens if a vehicle owner surrenders the permit?
The permit is canceled, and the owner must apply afresh if they wish to operate again. - Is there a subsidy on diesel?
Yes, the scheme provides subsidies on diesel to support operational costs. - Can old vehicles be used under this scheme?
No, only new vehicles purchased as per scheme guidelines are eligible. - Can students avail fare concessions?
Yes, the scheme supports fare concessions for students as per government policies. - Is there a penalty for non-compliance?
Yes, non-compliance with scheme rules can result in penalties or permit cancellation. - Are vehicles prioritized at bus stands?
Yes, rural buses are given priority access at government bus stands and exempted from stand fees. - What is the processing time for the application?
Applications are reviewed promptly, and permits are issued upon approval.