Srinagar/Jammu: In a major announcement during the Jammu and Kashmir budget session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that the free bus service for women will continue in 2026, with significant expansion to include students and persons with disabilities, ensuring broader access and social inclusivity across the Union Territory.
The scheme, launched earlier to empower women by providing safe and affordable transportation, has reportedly benefited thousands since its inception. With the new measures, students from schools and colleges, as well as differently-abled individuals, will now also enjoy free travel, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to equitable access to public services. Officials emphasized that these additions aim to promote education, mobility, and social integration for all sections of society.
In a related initiative, the government announced that six LPG cylinders per year will be provided to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, strengthening support for vulnerable households and promoting clean cooking fuel usage in rural and urban areas. The Chief Minister noted that this intervention aligns with the broader social welfare agenda of the 2026 budget, targeting energy security, health benefits, and financial relief for economically weaker sections.
These measures complement ongoing efforts to boost women’s empowerment, youth participation, and social welfare. The government highlighted that the free bus service and LPG distribution schemes are part of a larger vision to create an inclusive, development-oriented framework that reaches the most marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials also indicated that the Department of Transport will coordinate with educational institutions, disability welfare authorities, and local bodies to ensure smooth implementation of these initiatives. Monitoring mechanisms will be put in place to assess usage, impact, and efficiency, ensuring that benefits reach all eligible beneficiaries in a timely manner.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding public welfare programs, emphasizing that accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity remain key pillars of policy planning. By combining transport, energy, and education-focused initiatives, the UT administration aims to enhance quality of life, reduce inequalities, and empower women, students, and persons with disabilities in Jammu and Kashmir.
With these announcements, Jammu and Kashmir is set to witness significant progress in social welfare and inclusive development, underlining the government’s focus on targeted support and citizen-centric governance.
