J&K Govt Announces Free Public Transport for Women, Support for 40,000 Female Entrepreneurs

Jammu, Mar 7, : In a significant move aimed at empowering women, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that all women in the Union Territory will be granted free ridership on government-owned public transport, including eBuses, starting April 1.

Presenting the budget in the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister stated that this initiative—the first of its kind in J&K—will alleviate financial burdens and enhance access to education and employment for women. “By removing transport costs, we aim to boost women’s mobility, increase workforce participation, and foster greater independence,” he said.

Further strengthening women’s economic empowerment, the government will support 40,000 women under the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, helping them establish micro-startups. The initiative ensures each beneficiary a sustainable annual income of ₹1 lakh, promoting financial independence and entrepreneurship across the Union Territory.