What this scheme offers
Launched in 2019, Delhi's free bus travel scheme for women became one of the most-used welfare programmes in the city, with the government estimating over 1,530 million 'Pink Tickets' issued by early 2024 and women's share of bus ridership rising from around 25% to 33%. The paper-ticket 'Pink Ticket' system is now being phased out in favour of the Saheli Pink Smart Card, a digital NCMC-based card launched on 2 March 2026 — the transition period (during which the old paper tickets kept working) extended through mid-September 2026, and the scheme also covers transgender residents.
Who is eligible
- Any woman or transgender resident of Delhi.
- Travelling on DTC or Delhi Cluster buses (not applicable to other bus operators or the Metro).
Documents required
- For the Saheli Pink Smart Card: Aadhaar card for verification
- Photograph, per card issuance requirements
How to apply
- Apply for the Saheli Pink Smart Card at a designated distribution centre or DTC bus depot.
- Complete Aadhaar-based verification as part of the registration process.
- Once issued, use the smart card to tap in for free travel on eligible DTC and Cluster buses.
- During the transition period, existing paper Pink Tickets can still be used — check current status, as the paper system is being phased out.
- Report any issues with card issuance or usage to your nearest DTC depot or the transport department helpline.