The Priyadarshini Free KSRTC Bus Travel Scheme represents a significant social welfare initiative introduced by the Government of Kerala to enhance women's mobility, promote gender equality, and improve access to education, employment, healthcare, and public services through free travel on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) ordinary buses. Public transport plays a crucial role in fostering social inclusion and economic participation, particularly for women, students, senior citizens, and economically disadvantaged groups. By reducing travel expenses, the scheme seeks to alleviate the financial burden on households while enabling beneficiaries to access wider socio-economic opportunities. However, alongside its social benefits, the scheme has implications for public transport finances, service delivery, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

This study evaluates the socio-economic outcomes of the Priyadarshini Free KSRTC Bus Travel Scheme by examining its impact on women's mobility, employment opportunities, educational participation, healthcare accessibility, household expenditure, social inclusion, and overall quality of life. The study also analyses beneficiaries' perceptions regarding service quality, travel frequency, safety, affordability, and satisfaction with the scheme. Furthermore, the research assesses the operational and financial implications of the scheme for KSRTC, including passenger demand, revenue compensation, infrastructure requirements, and policy sustainability. The study identifies key challenges affecting the effective implementation of the programme and proposes policy recommendations for improving accessibility, service efficiency, and the long-term viability of subsidized public transport.

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how free public transport influences socio-economic development, women's empowerment, and inclusive mobility in Kerala. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, transport authorities, and development practitioners in designing sustainable and socially inclusive public transportation policies.

Keywords: Priyadarshini Free KSRTC Bus Travel Scheme, Public Transport, Women's Mobility, Socio-Economic Impact, Kerala, Social Inclusion, Household Expenditure, Women's Empowerment