Women’s Day 2025: Major Benefits for Women in Jammu & Kashmir’s Budget

Published On: March 8, 2025

In a historic move aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced free bus travel for women on all government-owned buses, including e-buses. This initiative, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, was declared on the occasion of International Women’s Day as part of the government’s commitment to easing financial burdens and improving mobility for women across the Union Territory.

Enhancing Women’s Access to Education, Employment, and Healthcare

The introduction of free public transport for women is designed to enhance accessibility to essential services such as education, employment, and healthcare. Women, particularly those from economically weaker sections, often face financial barriers that limit their opportunities. By providing free transportation, the government aims to ensure their seamless participation in the workforce and society at large.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized the significance of this move, stating:

“On this Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to the empowerment of women. This initiative will not only reduce financial stress but also guarantee greater mobility and access to essential opportunities.”

Key Highlights from the J&K Government’s Budget for Women’s in Jammu & Kashmir

During his Budget presentation—the first in Jammu and Kashmir in seven years—Chief Minister Abdullah introduced several progressive policies aimed at economic growth and social welfare. Some of the most notable announcements include:

1. Free Bus Travel for Women

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, all women in Jammu and Kashmir will be able to travel free of cost on government-owned public transport, including e-buses.
This measure is expected to ease financial burdens, especially for working women, students, and those in rural areas who rely on public transport for daily commutes.

2. Boost to Women Entrepreneurship: ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme

The government has pledged to support 40,000 women in launching micro-startups, fostering entrepreneurship across the Union Territory.
Under the Centre’s flagship ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, the initiative aims to ensure an annual sustainable income of Rs 1 lakh per woman entrepreneur.
This step is expected to enhance economic independence and encourage self-sufficiency among women.

Impact of Free Travel for Women in Jammu & Kashmir

The announcement of free public transport for women is a landmark decision with far-reaching implications:

Increased Workforce Participation: Women will be able to commute to work without financial constraints, boosting employment rates and productivity.
Improved Access to Education: Female students, especially from rural and underprivileged backgrounds, will have better access to schools and universities.
Greater Independence and Safety: With free public transport, women will experience greater autonomy and security while traveling across the region.
Encouraging Sustainable Transport: The inclusion of e-buses aligns with eco-friendly transportation solutions, promoting a greener future for Jammu and Kashmir.

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s decision to offer free bus travel for women is a significant step towards women’s empowerment and financial relief. By making public transport accessible, supporting women entrepreneurs, and introducing welfare programs like free electricity, the administration is working towards inclusive growth and social upliftment.

As this initiative rolls out on April 1, 2025, it is expected to have a transformative impact on women’s lives, ensuring mobility, opportunity, and financial ease. With such forward-thinking policies, Jammu and Kashmir is paving the way for a more equitable and progressive society.