What this scheme offers
Introduced on the first day of the previous government in May 2021, free bus travel for women has changed how women in Tamil Nadu get to work, college and markets — the share of women among bus passengers rose from about 40% to 61%. Any woman, transgender person or girl student can board an ordinary-fare town bus run by the state transport corporations and ride without a ticket; there's no card, pass or registration. In July 2026 buses began displaying the name 'Magalir Payanam' instead of 'Magalir Vidiyal Payanam', and the Transport Minister has confirmed the free travel continues.
Who is eligible
- All women, transgender persons and girl students.
- Valid on ordinary-fare town buses of Tamil Nadu's state transport undertakings (not on express, deluxe or AC services).
Documents required
- None — no pass or card required
How to apply
- No application needed.
- Board any ordinary-fare town bus of the state transport corporations.
- Collect the zero-value ticket issued by the conductor, where applicable.