Scheme Overview:

• Scheme Name: PM-eBus Sewa
• Launch Date: August 16, 2023
• Goal: Deploy 10,000 electric buses across India to strengthen public transport systems via Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model

Karnataka’s Allotment:

• Total e-Buses Sanctioned: 750
• Eligible Cities (10 total):
  • 100 buses each: Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Kalaburagi, Mangaluru, Mysuru
  • 50 buses each: 5 other eligible cities
• Non-eligible cities: Bengaluru and Udupi
  • Reason: Do not meet the scheme’s eligibility guidelines
• Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy’s View:
  • Prefers direct subsidy model (used during UPA era)
  • Earlier: 50% cost borne by Centre, remaining 50% split between State and RTCs
  • Current method lacks transparency and efficiency, he claims

State’s Demand:

• Karnataka urges the Central Government to revert to the direct subsidy model
• Seeks financial assistance to RTCs instead of routing through private firms

Future Plans:

• Target for FY 2025–26: Introduce 14,750 electric buses
  • Through:
    • PM-eBus Sewa
    • PM e-DRIVE

Other externally aided schemes