Reaffirming the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to women-centric welfare and inclusive development, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the State Government is implementing transformative initiatives to empower women, strengthen their economic independence and ensure equal opportunities for their growth and progress.
Sharing details, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Punjab Government has spent ₹298 crore so far during the financial year 2026-27 on providing free bus travel for women. She added that women avail around 1.20 crore free bus journeys every month, highlighting the widespread acceptance and success of this flagship welfare initiative.
The Minister said that the scheme has significantly reduced the financial burden on women and has become a vital support for lakhs of commuters travelling for employment, education, healthcare and other essential needs. She said that by making travel affordable and accessible, the initiative is enabling women to step out with greater confidence, pursue new employment opportunities and participate more actively in the social and economic development of Punjab.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further said that the free travel facility is available in government-operated buses, providing women with safe, reliable and convenient public transport across the State. She added that the initiative has emerged as an important step towards enhancing women's mobility, independence and economic participation.
The Minister said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is firmly committed to building a "Rangla Punjab" where every woman can travel safely, live with dignity and realise her full potential. She added that the Punjab Government will continue to introduce progressive, people-centric initiatives that empower women and ensure that the benefits of development reach every household across the State.