Karnataka Shakti Scheme 2026: Aadhaar Validity, Smart Card Rules & How to Apply

Karnataka Shakti Scheme: Aadhaar Card Cancel? Here’s the Official Truth Recently, social media platforms have been flooded with viral posts claiming that women must compulsorily show a Smart Card to travel free in Karnataka government buses and that Aadhaar card will no longer be accepted. But what is the official truth?

RAAD WORLD verified the information using official government scheme details and transport department guidelines.

What Is the Shakti Scheme?

The Shakti Scheme is a flagship welfare initiative launched by the Government of Karnataka that provides free bus travel for women and transgender persons who are residents of Karnataka.

The scheme applies to:

• KSRTC
• BMTC
• NWKRTC
• KKRTC government buses

Luxury and premium services like AC, Airavat, Vajra, and sleeper buses are not included.

Is Smart Card Mandatory Now?

According to official scheme guidelines: The Shakti Smart Card is intended to become the primary identification method. However, until the Smart Card is issued and distributed, women can still travel using:

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID
• Any valid Government Photo ID with Karnataka address proof

There is no official circular stating immediate cancellation of Aadhaar usage.

How to Apply for Karnataka Shakti Smart Card

(Step-by-Step)

The Shakti Smart Card is issued through the Karnataka Government’s official Seva Sindhu portal.

Step 1: Visit Official Portal

👉https://sevasindhuservices.karnataka.gov.in/

Go to the official Seva Sindhu Karnataka website (Only use official government portal – avoid third-party websites)

Step 2: Login / Register

1. Click on Register if new user
2. Enter mobile number
3. Verify using OTP
4. Create password

Existing users can directly login.

Step 3: Search for “Shakti Scheme”

• In services section, search: Shakti Scheme Smart Card
• Select the correct transport department service

Step 4: Fill Application Form

You need to provide:

1. Full Name (as per Aadhaar)
2. Aadhaar Number
3. Residential Address (Karnataka only)
4. Mobile Number
5. Upload Photo (if required)

Make sure all details match Aadhaar.

Step 5: Submit & Acknowledgement

1. Submit the form
2. Download acknowledgement receipt
3. Application ID will be generated
4. Keep the Application ID for tracking.

Step 6: Card Issuance

• After verification, Smart Card will be issued
• You may receive SMS notification
• Card collection / delivery instructions will be provided

Important Points

• Only Karnataka residents are eligible
• Aadhaar or government photo ID is needed during application
• Until Smart Card is issued, Aadhaar + address proof can be used for travel
• No agent fees application is through official portal only

Avoid Scams

• Do not pay middlemen
• Do not share OTP with anyone
• Apply only through official government website

Conclusion:

The Karnataka Shakti Scheme continues to provide free bus travel for eligible women and transgender residents across the state. While the Shakti Smart Card is being introduced as the standard identification method, there is no official statewide order cancelling Aadhaar immediately.

Applicants are encouraged to apply for the Smart Card through the official Seva Sindhu portal to avoid future inconvenience. Until the card is issued, valid government ID such as Aadhaar with Karnataka address proof remains acceptable as per current guidelines.

Citizens should rely only on official government notifications and transport department updates, and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.

RAAD WORLD remains committed to publishing only verified and fact-checked updates.

About The Author