Kashmir, February 24, 2026 – The Jammu & Kashmir government has spent ₹47 crore on providing 1.66 crore free public transport rides for women across the Union Territory, officials said on Tuesday. The scheme, introduced to encourage women’s mobility and participation in education, work, and social activities, has seen widespread usage in both urban and rural areas.
According to transport department data, women accounted for the majority of public transport commuters under the initiative, which aims to enhance gender equality and safety in daily commuting. The government has described the program as a step toward empowering women and ensuring they have easier access to opportunities across the UT.
However, some analysts have raised concerns about the financial sustainability of the scheme, given the significant expenditure of ₹47 crore. Officials have assured that the government is monitoring the program closely and will explore ways to optimize its operations without compromising benefits.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to women’s empowerment and accessible transport,” said a senior official. “We are continuously evaluating its impact to ensure that it remains both effective and sustainable.”
The scheme has also sparked public discussions on balancing welfare initiatives with fiscal prudence, as the UT continues to expand social programs for vulnerable and underserved communities.
