Free Bus Travel Schemes for Women Across India

Indian states are expanding free bus travel to help women and transgender persons. Tamil Nadu announced that its Vettri Payanam scheme will cover deluxe and express buses from October 2, 2026. This change will likely help 25 lakh more women. The annual budget for the program is now 6,000 crore rupees.

State welfare programs

Many states run similar travel programs. Karnataka operates its Shakti scheme and Telangana has the Maha Lakshmi initiative. Delhi, Kerala, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh also provide free bus travel. Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand provide free travel for women during Raksha Bandhan.

These schemes help people reach schools, jobs, and health services. Although these programs cost states a lot of money, governments see them as important for social support and meeting election promises.