Fri Nov 15 15:21:51 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Government Announces 9,000 NWKRTC Recruitment Drive, Other Benefits

**Hubballi, Karnataka –** The Karnataka government announced a major recruitment drive for the North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) on Friday, during the corporation’s 27th Foundation Day celebrations. Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy revealed plans to fill 9,000 vacant posts, a backlog accumulated over the past seven years. He cited a lack of recruitment under the previous BJP government, adding that the current administration will also process 1,000 compassionate appointments within two months.

Further benefits for NWKRTC employees include a ₹1 crore insurance cover for families of employees killed in accidents and the introduction of a cashless hospitalization facility from January. Minister Reddy also addressed concerns regarding outstanding funds, stating that discussions with the Chief Minister are underway to resolve pending arrears and a significant loan burden inherited from the previous administration.

Labour Minister Santosh Lad highlighted the arrival of 584 out of 800 promised new buses for NWKRTC, with the remaining expected by December. He also emphasized the continuation of the Congress government’s free bus ride scheme for women. Lad contrasted the Karnataka government’s achievements with the “Gujarat Model,” arguing that despite decades of BJP rule, Gujarat hasn’t achieved top rankings in any field, while Karnataka contributes the highest GDP to the nation.

NWKRTC Chairman Bharamagouda (Raju) Kage requested a ₹1,000 crore special grant from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The Foundation Day celebrations also included the launch of 127 new buses (part of a 375-bus procurement plan costing ₹150 crore), recognition of 43 accident-free drivers, and prize distribution for various competitions. The corporation also reported ₹50 crore in revenue generated through UPI transactions.

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