The MLC credits the Shakti program with increasing the number of devotees visiting the Hasanamba temple in Hassan

MLC and Deputy Chairman State Guarantee Schemes Implementation Authority Dinesh Gooligowda credited the state government’s Shakti program for the increase in the number of devotees visiting the Hasanamba temple in Hassan. More than 30 million people visited the temple during the festival, which ended on Wednesday.

In a letter to Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday, Mr. Gooligowda said the number of devotees has increased nearly five-fold in four years, from around 6 lakh in 2022 to over 30 lakh in 2026. About 14.40 lakh devotees had darshan in 24 and 2702. 26.13 million in 2025, according to the figures given in the letter.

The MLC said the free bus travel for women has removed the burden of transport costs for many who had earlier put off visiting the holy places. “The year-on-year increase in the number of devotees in Hasanamba Jatra and the large participation of women devotees is an example of the positive impact of Shakti Yojana. It is heartening that this scheme of the state government, which prioritizes the comfort and empowerment of women, is bringing a change in people’s lives,” he said.

He added that since the launch of the scheme, women have taken 875.89 crore free trips, with the government bearing an expenditure of ₹23,202.22 crore. “These statistics are a testimony to the contribution of this scheme which has freed millions of women from the burden of transport costs,” he said while congratulating the chief minister on the scheme.

Published – 11 Nov 2026 20:40 IST