Ahead of Raksha Bandhan on August 9, multiple state governments across India have rolled out free bus travel schemes for women, with durations and conditions varying by region. These initiatives promote safe, affordable travel for sisters heading home to celebrate the festival.
State-by-State Table
| State / Region | Free Travel Duration & Details |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 3 days — from 6 AM Aug 8 to midnight Aug 10 on UPSRTC & city buses. Women may bring one co-passenger. Extra buses deployed. The Times of IndiaThe StatesmanFree Press Journal |
| Haryana | From noon Aug 8 to midnight Aug 9. Applies to women and children under 15, including routes to Delhi and Chandigarh. https://www.oneindia.com/Republic World |
| Rajasthan | 2 days — Aug 9 and 10. Valid on all state-run buses within Rajasthan. https://www.oneindia.com/The Times of India |
| Madhya Pradesh | Aug 9 only — Free city bus rides in Bhopal and Indore. Additionally, Ladli Behna Yojana beneficiaries receive ₹1,500 + ₹250 festive bonus. https://www.oneindia.com/Indiatimes |
| Uttarakhand | Aug 9 only — Annual tradition continues with free rides for women and children via Uttarakhand Transport Corporation. https://www.oneindia.com/@mathrubhumiIndiatimes |
| Chandigarh / Tricity | Aug 9 only — Women can travel free on CTU and CCBSS buses within Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. https://www.oneindia.com/@mathrubhumi |
| Year-round schemes | Delhi, Punjab, Karnataka — Already offer free government bus travel for women; no special Raksha Bandhan announcements needed. https://www.oneindia.com/@mathrubhumiIndiatimes |
| Additional Context (UP) | Over 1.23 crore women have availed of free travel on Rakhi since 2017 under UP’s program. IndiatimesThe Times of India |
Why It Matters
These state-led initiatives emphasize:
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Safety and accessibility for women during festive travel.
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Emotional and familial reconnection, especially in rural areas.
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A symbolic gesture affirming women’s empowerment and respect through public policy.
