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The landscape of public transport in India is undergoing a transformative shift. With the West Bengal government recently announcing free bus travel for women effective June 1, 2026, the state joins a prestigious list of regions prioritizing female mobility and financial independence.

From the bustling streets of Delhi to the coastal roads of Tamil Nadu, here is a guide to the states where women can ride for free.

1. Delhi: The Pioneer of the 'Pink Ticket'

In 2019, the national capital became the first to break barriers with its Pink Ticket system. Women can travel free of charge on all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses. To further modernize the experience, the city is now transitioning toward 'Pink Saheli' smart cards.

2. Tamil Nadu: The 'Vidiyal Payanam' Revolution

Launched in 2021, the Vidiyal Payanam (Journey of Dawn) scheme has revolutionized daily commutes in major hubs like Chennai and Madurai. This initiative has made visiting Tamil Nadu’s iconic temple towns and scenic coastal stretches more accessible and affordable for women across the state.

3. Karnataka: Empowering through the 'Shakti Scheme'

Implemented in June 2023, the Shakti Scheme provides free transit for women on all non-luxury state-run buses. This has opened up budget-friendly tourism and easy commuting to world-class destinations such as Mysore’s palaces, the ruins of Hampi, and the misty hills of Coorg.

4. Punjab: Seamless State-Wide Access

Since 2021, Punjab has offered free bus travel to women on all government-operated local and intercity buses. To avail of this benefit, female travelers simply need to carry a valid government-issued ID, such as an [Aadhaar Redacted], to verify their residency and eligibility.

5. Telangana: The Inclusive 'Mahalakshmi Scheme'

Telangana took a step further in December 2023 with the Mahalakshmi Scheme. This initiative provides free travel on non-AC government buses not just for women, but for the transgender community as well, ensuring inclusive and safe mobility within the state's borders.

6. Jammu and Kashmir: Smart Commutes in the North

In the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, women enjoy free rides on buses operated by the J&K Road Transport Corporation. The benefit also extends to the modern Smart City e-buses in Jammu and Srinagar, blending sustainability with social empowerment.

7. West Bengal: The Newest Entry

Joining the movement on June 1, 2026, West Bengal’s new administration is set to implement free travel for women on all state-run buses. This move is expected to significantly boost the workforce participation of women and ease the cost of living for millions in the state.