Delhi Govt Launches 'Pink Saheli Smart Card' for Free Travel for Women and Transgender Commuters
The Delhi government has launched the 'Pink Saheli Smart Card' to provide free and convenient bus travel for women and transgender individuals aged 12 and above across Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses. The card is personalized and rechargeable under the National Common Mobility Card framework. Additionally, the government announced a reform to grant recognition to private unaided schools in non-conforming areas of Delhi, restoring constitutional education rights.
On November 2, 2025, the Delhi government announced the 'Pink Saheli Smart Card', aimed at promoting safer, more accessible, and financially inclusive public transport for women and transgender individuals. This personalized smart card, carrying the holder’s name and photo, enables free rides on all DTC and cluster buses for females and transgender persons aged 12 years and above. The card is issued under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework, with features allowing recharges and usage across other transit modes. The initiative intends to replace the old paper-based pink ticket system, reducing misuse and ensuring benefits reach bona fide residents of Delhi. Applications for the card are available online, with valid identity proof required for registration. Furthermore, in a parallel social equity measure, the Delhi government, guided by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, opened an application window for private unaided schools operating in non-conforming areas to seek official recognition by November 30, 2025. This move addresses a decade-long issue, ensuring thousands of children regain their constitutional right to education, correcting previous administrative bias and promoting fairness in the education system. These initiatives reflect the Delhi government's comprehensive approach to enhancing public service access and social justice for women, transgender individuals, and educational institutions in the city.
