Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M.K. Stalin’s Mini Bus Scheme Wins Over the Public

The Mini Bus Scheme launched by the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M.K. Stalin, has been warmly welcomed by the people of the state. Nearly 10 million rural residents living in 90,000 villages across 3,103 routes, which previously lacked bus services, are now benefiting from this initiative.

Former CM Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi, a scholar of Tamil and statesman, had earlier nationalized private transport and established state-run transport corporations across Tamil Nadu, making it a leader in public transportation in India. To extend bus services to even the most remote villages, Kalaignar introduced the Mini Bus Scheme in 1997, ensuring better mobility for rural communities.

In response to a High Court judgment in a case filed by the private bus operators’ association, public consultations were held statewide on 22 July 2024. Based on inputs from citizens and transport stakeholders, a revamped Mini Bus Scheme 2024 was announced on 23 January 2025. Further modifications were made following additional court directions, leading to the official announcement of the updated plan on 28 April 2025.

As per the scheme, mini buses will operate on routes up to 25 km, particularly benefiting remote locations by connecting people to government offices, hospitals, and key public service points. Buses will also be permitted to run on routes as short as 1 km, wherever necessary.

The CM formally flagged off the new phase of the Mini Bus Scheme in Thanjavur on 16 June 2025. Across rural Tamil Nadu, people rejoiced as buses began to arrive in their villages — an emotional and momentous occasion for many.

In one village, an elderly woman reportedly knelt down and wept with joy upon seeing the first mini bus arrive. In other places, residents lit camphor in celebration, expressing heartfelt gratitude.

A resident from Thumbikulam, who commutes daily for agricultural labor, shared:

“Until now, I had to walk long distances daily to work due to the lack of bus facilities. With the arrival of the mini bus, I can now travel safely and happily. I sincerely thank Chief Minister Thiru M.K. Stalin for launching this scheme.”

Bhavani, a student from Thiruthani, said:

“I’m studying in +2 at the Government Girls’ School in Thiruthani. It was very difficult to reach school every day without a bus. Now, with the mini bus reaching our village, commuting has become much easier.”

Varadarajan, from Kannivakkam near Kooduvancheri, shared his experience:

“We had no proper transport. We were forced to rely on expensive two-wheelers or autos. Now, with this mini bus service to our village, our hardships are reduced, and our expenses are lowered. We sincerely thank the Honourable Chief Minister.”

Thanks to this visionary initiative of Thiru M.K. Stalin, nearly one crore people are now enjoying improved access and mobility in rural Tamil Nadu. The scheme has truly brought meaningful progress and immeasurable joy to countless rural families, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

Issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9.