The Punjab government is preparing to introduce smart cards as the new identity proof for women availing free travel on state-run buses, replacing the existing Aadhaar-based verification system. The move is aimed at improving transparency, ensuring benefits reach genuine users, and reducing the growing financial burden on state transport undertakings.
The smart cards are being developed under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, Punjab’s flagship cashless health insurance scheme. Once implemented, these cards will also serve as travel passes for women, allowing conductors to verify eligibility using hand-held card-reading devices. Officials said tenders for procuring these devices are currently being floated by the Transport Department.
At present, nearly 3.5 lakh women across Punjab avail the free bus travel facility every day. On average, beneficiaries travel about 42 kilometres daily, making the scheme one of the most widely used welfare initiatives in the state. While the programme has significantly improved mobility for women, particularly those travelling for work, education, and healthcare, it has also resulted in steep operational costs.
State transport bodies, including Pepsu Road Transport Corporation, Punbus, and Punjab Roadways, have expressed concern over mounting losses. Against an annual budgetary allocation of ₹450 crore, the scheme is costing the transport undertakings close to ₹800 crore each year. Officials have pointed out that delays in reimbursements and lack of precise passenger data have further strained their finances.
Government sources clarified that all women remain eligible for free travel upon showing valid identification. However, the shift to smart cards is expected to help the administration better identify rightful beneficiaries and prevent misuse. The Health Department, which is overseeing the preparation of the cards, is currently conducting a survey to register beneficiaries. The smart cards are likely to be issued within the next two months.
Funding for the free travel scheme is released by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, based on claims submitted by the Transport Department. Officials believe that real-time data generated through smart card usage will streamline the claims process and improve accountability.
While the free travel benefit will continue, senior officials indicated that the scheme may be fine-tuned to balance social welfare objectives with financial sustainability. The introduction of smart cards is being seen as a step toward more efficient governance, ensuring that a popular welfare initiative remains viable without compromising its core purpose.