Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has been conferred the World HRD Congress Award 2026 under the ‘Best in Training and Organisation Development’ category at a ceremony held in Kochi, Kerala, on March 31, Tuesday.

The award recognises KSRTC’s extensive and structured training initiatives implemented across its five training centres. “These programmes cover fuel efficiency, refresher courses, accident-free driving, road safety awareness, and simulator-based training. Under the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) scheme, heavy-vehicle driving training and free driving licences are provided to Scheduled Caste candidates in collaboration with the Transport Department. Similar initiatives are being implemented for minority communities in partnership with the Directorate of Minorities,” an official said.

KSRTC also offers driving training to private candidates, while newly recruited driver-cum-conductors, technical staff, constables, and junior assistants undergo induction training. Special programmes are conducted for supervisory staff, alongside refresher and capacity-building sessions for administrative personnel. Over the past six months, more than 12,000 staff have undergone training, reflecting the scale and impact of these initiatives, according to officials.

Latha T.S., board secretary and chief public relations officer, along with A.S. Geethanjali, principal, Regional Training Institute, Hassan, received the award on behalf of KSRTC.