Shakti scheme triggers surge in women pilgrims during Sharavana Masa in Karnataka
The Karnataka government's 'Shakti' scheme, which provides free bus travel for women, has led to a significant increase in female pilgrims visiting holy sites during the month of Shravana. While the scheme is popular, it has caused overcrowding and difficulties for daily commuters and students.
Why it matters
It illustrates the social and economic impact of public welfare schemes and the logistical challenges of managing increased demand on public infrastructure.
State-owned buses across Yadgir and neighbouring districts in Karnataka experienced a massive rush of women passengers during the ongoing Shravana Maasa (month of Shravan). They were availing the Shakti scheme of the Karnataka government to visit holy shrines.
The auspicious Hindu month has seen thousands of female devotees traveling across Karnataka on a pilgrimage. Prominent religious destinations, including the Sri Vishwaradhya temple in Abbetumkur, Sri Mailaralingeshwar temple in Mailapur in Yadgir district, and the Sri Sugureshwar temple in Devsugur (Shaktinagar) in neighbouring Raichur district, have reported record turnout of pilgrims.
The Sri Mailaralingeshwar temple, in particular, has seen a sharp rise in devotees traveling from different parts of north Karnataka districts, including Dharwad, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, and Belagavi. Many female pilgrims arrive the night before to secure an early morning darshan before returning home.
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