Andhra Pradesh Divyang Shakti Scheme

Scheme Introduction: A Brief Overview

• The Government of Andhra Pradesh has launched the Divyang Shakti Scheme on 18 March 2026 to provide free bus travel to persons with disabilities across the state.
• Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu introduced this scheme in Amaravati during the Ugadi celebrations, while local MLAs organized launch events in all constituencies.
• The government designed this scheme by taking inspiration from the Stree Shakti Scheme, which already provides free bus travel to women.
• Now the government has extended similar support to persons with disabilities to ensure equal mobility and inclusion.
• The main objective of this scheme is to make travel affordable and accessible so that persons with disabilities can easily reach schools, hospitals, and workplaces without financial stress.
• Through this initiative, the government also aims to promote independence and dignity in their daily lives.
• Under the Divyang Shakti Scheme, eligible beneficiaries can travel free of cost in APSRTC buses such as :-
  • City Ordinary.
  • Metro Express.
  • Palle Velugu.
  • Ultra Palle Velugu.
  • Express services.
• The scheme also provides a 50 percent fare concession to attendants who travel along with the beneficiary.
• Persons who have at least 40 percent disability and are registered in the Sadarem database can avail the benefits of this scheme.
• The government has also expanded the eligible disability categories, which will increase the number of beneficiaries significantly.
• The government has kept the process simple and user friendly.
• Existing pass holders can continue using their passes, while new beneficiaries can apply for a digital pass through the Mana Mitra WhatsApp platform or the APSRTC mobile app.
• Beneficiaries can then use a QR code to travel without paying any fare.
• Overall, the Divyang Shakti Scheme is a major step towards inclusive welfare and better public transport access for persons with disabilities in Andhra Pradesh.

Scheme Benefits

• Free bus travel for persons with disabilities across the state.
• Travel allowed in APSRTC buses including City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu and Express.
• Attendants get 50 percent discount on ticket fare.
• Covers more disability categories so more people can benefit.
• Digital pass and QR code system makes travel easy and paperless.
• Helps in better access to education healthcare and jobs.

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be a permanent resident of Andhra Pradesh so that only state residents get the benefit.
• The applicant must have at least 40 percent disability as certified under official guidelines.
• The applicant must be registered in the Sadarem database for verification of disability.
• The benefit is available only to persons with disabilities who fall under the approved categories.
• The applicant must have valid identity proof to confirm personal details.
• The applicant should apply for or possess a valid digital or physical disability pass.
• Attendants can avail concession only when they travel along with the eligible beneficiary.

Required Documents

• Disability Certificate issued through the Sadarem database to confirm eligibility.
• Valid Photo Identity Proof such as Aadhaar Card or any government ID.
• Recent Passport Size Photograph if required during application.
• Mobile Number linked with Aadhaar for verification and updates.
• Existing Disability Pass if already issued.

Steps to Apply

• Under the Divyang Shakti Scheme the government gives free bus travel to persons with disabilities so that they can travel easily without worrying about money.
• You must have at least 40 percent disability to get this benefit because the government uses this rule to identify eligible people.
• You need to register your details in the Sadarem database so that your disability can be verified officially.
• If you already have a valid disability pass then you can use it directly without applying again.
• If you are a new beneficiary then you can apply for a digital pass in a simple way.
• You can apply through the Mana Mitra WhatsApp platform or by using the APSRTC mobile app.
• You need to fill in your details and submit the application so that the system can check your information.
• After approval you will receive a digital pass which will allow you to travel for free.
• When you want to travel you can board any eligible APSRTC bus without any problem.
• You need to show your digital pass or QR code to the conductor so that your identity can be verified.
• The conductor will check your details and give you a zero fare ticket which means you do not have to pay anything.
• If an attendant travels with you then that person will get a 50 percent discount on the ticket.
• You can use this facility in City, Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu and Express buses across the state.
• In this way the scheme makes travel simple comfortable and affordable for persons with disabilities.

Relevant Links

• Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation Website.

Contact Information

• Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation Customer Support :-
  • 0866 2570005.
  • 0866 2570149.