In a recent development, the newly elected government of West Bengal has announced free bus service for women commuters on government-run buses starting June 1, 2026. This initiative marks a significant shift in public transport accessibility across the state, benefiting students, office-goers, domestic workers, solo travellers, and women exploring Bengal. However, West Bengal is not the first state to implement such a scheme. According to the government-backed information platform Vikaspedia, at least seven other Indian states and Union Territories currently offer free or subsidised bus travel for women on public transport systems. These schemes are transforming how women travel across cities and states, making mobility more affordable and accessible.
States Offering Free Bus Travel for Women
Delhi: Pink Ticket Scheme
Delhi pioneered free bus travel for women in 2019 with its famous "Pink Ticket" system. Women travelling on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses can travel for free. The scheme is highly popular among students, office-goers, and women visiting tourist hubs like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place. Delhi is gradually transitioning to digital "Pink Saheli Smart Cards" for enhanced convenience.
Tamil Nadu: Vidiyal Payanam
The Tamil Nadu government introduced the "Vidiyal Payanam" scheme in 2021, allowing women to travel free on government-run buses. This initiative has transformed travel for women in cities such as Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore, making it easier and more affordable to explore temple towns and coastal destinations across the state.
West Bengal
As mentioned, West Bengal will offer free bus travel for women on government-run buses from June 1, 2026. This move is expected to significantly benefit female commuters across the state.
Karnataka: Shakti Scheme
Karnataka introduced the "Shakti" scheme in June 2023, which quickly gained national attention. Under this scheme, women can travel free on non-luxury government buses across the state. The initiative has opened up budget-friendly access to tourist destinations like Mysuru, Hampi, and Coorg.
Punjab
Punjab launched its free bus travel scheme for women in April 2021, covering government-owned buses. Women residents need to present identity proof such as Aadhaar or voter cards to avail the benefit. The scheme has made local mobility easier and cheaper for travellers exploring cities like Amritsar and Patiala.
Telangana: Mahalakshmi Scheme
The Telangana government introduced the Mahalakshmi scheme in December 2023, enabling women and transgender passengers to travel free on non-AC state buses across the state. This policy has significantly lowered travel costs for women visiting Telangana's heritage destinations.
Jammu and Kashmir
The government of Jammu and Kashmir offers free ride services for women on smart city e-buses and buses operated by the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC). The initiative has been particularly beneficial in cities such as Jammu and Srinagar.
Andhra Pradesh: Stree Shakti Scheme
The Andhra Pradesh government introduced the Stree Shakti free bus scheme in August 2025. Women passengers must show ID proof to verify their residence and avail the service.
These eight states and Union Territories are leading the way in promoting women's mobility through free public bus travel, setting a precedent for others to follow.
