Under the newly approved 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yojana', women over 60 in Uttar Pradesh will enjoy lifelong free travel on UPSRTC buses. This landmark decision aims to boost mobility and financial independence for senior citizens.

  • Lifelong free travel for women aged 60+ on UPSRTC ordinary buses.
  • Implemented under the 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yojana'.
  • Special smart cards to be issued for seamless identification and travel.
  • Estimated daily beneficiaries: approximately 88,438 women.

LUCKNOW: In a major boost to women's empowerment, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved a transformative scheme providing lifelong free bus travel for women aged 60 and above. The decision, made during the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, falls under the 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yojana'.

The initiative is designed to provide significant financial relief to senior women while fostering greater independence in their daily commutes. According to an official government statement, this move aligns with the 'Sashakt Nari' (Empowered Woman) vision outlined in the Lok Kalyan Sankalp-2022, aimed at enhancing transportation facilities for the female population.

Read Also:Tiranga is a Symbol of India’s Honour, Pride, and Glory: CM Yogi Adityanath

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this policy is a strategic move to enhance the socio-economic mobility of the elderly population in Uttar Pradesh. By removing the barrier of commuting costs, the state government is effectively enabling senior women to access healthcare, markets, and social circles more easily, thereby reducing social isolation and economic strain.

This scheme is a landmark step in ensuring that age does not become a barrier to mobility and social participation for women.

To ensure systematic implementation and prevent misuse, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will issue specialized smart cards to eligible beneficiaries. These cards will serve as a digital identity for senior women, facilitating quick verification and a hassle-free boarding process.

Historical Background

The Government of Uttar Pradesh has consistently prioritized women-centric welfare schemes. Following the framework of the Lok Kalyan Sankalp-2022, the administration has been working toward building a robust social safety net. This new scheme is an extension of those efforts, focusing specifically on the intersection of gender and geriatric welfare.

Did You Know?: It is estimated that nearly 88,438 women will benefit from this free travel facility every single day across the state.

The scale of this project is massive, with the government anticipating a significant surge in the usage of public transport by senior citizens, potentially reshaping the patronage patterns of the UPSRTC network.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which buses are covered under this free travel scheme?
The free travel facility is applicable to all ordinary buses operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC).

2. How can eligible women avail of this facility?
Eligible women aged 60 and above will be provided with special smart cards by the Transport Corporation to facilitate their travel.