Free Bus Travel for Women in J&K Announced from April 1, 2025
In a landmark move to promote gender equality and ease financial constraints, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced free bus travel for women in J&K on all government-owned public transport, including e-buses.
The initiative, set to begin on April 1, 2025, was unveiled on International Women’s Day during the presentation of the J&K Budget 2025-26 in the Legislative Assembly.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, Abdullah stated that this initiative would enhance access to education, employment, and healthcare, particularly benefiting women from economically weaker sections.
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A Step Towards Women’s Empowerment
With an outlay of ₹1.12 lakh crore, Jammu and Kashmir’s first budget in seven years introduces several welfare measures, including free bus travel for women in J&K. The initiative aims to encourage more women to participate in the workforce, pursue higher education, and travel safely and affordably.
Speaking on the announcement, the CM said,
“On this Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering women. This move will not only reduce financial burdens but also improve mobility and access to opportunities.”
This policy aligns with nationwide efforts to provide women with better access to public resources, reinforcing their role in economic and social development. The decision also comes amid increasing focus on safe, affordable, and efficient public transport systems for women across India.
Implementation and Expected Impact
Starting from April 1, 2025, all women in Jammu and Kashmir will be eligible for free ridership on government-run buses, including electric buses operating in the Union Territory. The move is expected to boost daily ridership, reduce household expenses, and encourage greater female workforce participation.
By removing financial barriers to travel, this initiative is poised to bring a positive socio-economic impact, benefiting students, working professionals, and homemakers alike.
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With this announcement, Jammu and Kashmir takes a significant step towards inclusive public transport policies, ensuring greater mobility, independence, and safety for women across the region.
