KSRTC raises Ayudha puja funding to Rs 250 amid

NT Correspondent Bengaluru: The amount allocated for Ayudha Puja has been increased from Rs 100 to Rs 250 by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). This decision follows years of criticism regarding the adequacy of the previous amount in today’s economic climate. Many stakeholders questioned whether Rs 100 was sufficient to ensure proper worship of KSRTC’s transport buses during the annual celebration. The Chief Mechanical Engineer of KSRTC emphasised the importance of maintaining vehicles and machinery in good condition for the annual Nadahabba Mysore Dussehra festivities.

Previously, an order had mandated a payment of Rs 100 for the puja to be conducted with cleanliness, but under the directive of the Managing Director, this amount has now been revised to Rs 250. Historically, the funding per bus has seen multiple increases. Initially set at Rs 10 per bus in 2008, it rose to Rs 30 in 2009, followed by increases to Rs 50 in 2016 and Rs 100 in 2017. The new allocation of Rs 250 per bus reflects the need to adapt to rising costs and ensure a dignified observance of this significant festival.