Chandigarh, March 20
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur has stated that approximately ₹2042 crore has been spent on providing free bus travel to women from the financial year 2022–23 to 2025–26. She elaborated that ₹495 crore was spent in 2022–23, ₹497.50 crore in 2023–24, ₹450 crore in 2024–25 and ₹600 crore in 2025–26 under this scheme.
The Cabinet Minister further informed that around 1.20 crore free bus rides are being availed by women across Punjab every month, clearly reflecting the popularity and effectiveness of this initiative. She emphasized that this facility is not merely about free travel, but a transformative step that is bringing a new wave of freedom and confidence into the lives of women. It is enabling them to access education, employment and healthcare services without financial constraints, thereby making them more self-reliant and empowered.
Dr. Kaur further stated that women empowerment is the foundation of a progressive society, and the Punjab Government remains fully committed to strengthening it. She added that more impactful and welfare-oriented initiatives will continue to be undertaken in the coming times for the well-being of women.
