Yogi Launches 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrishakti Yatra': Free Bus Travel for Senior Women and Festival Gift for All

In a landmark welfare initiative coinciding with the sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath officially launched the "Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrishakti Yatra" in Lucknow. Speaking from the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan amidst rain showers, the Chief Minister flagged off special Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation buses, marking the rollout of comprehensive transit benefits for women across the state.

Special Free Bus Travel for All Women During Raksha Bandhan

To facilitate joyful family reunions and safe travel during the festive season, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced free bus rides for women of all ages—along with accompanying children—across ordinary and city buses statewide.

• Festival Travel Window: The free service is operational from 6:00 AM on August 27 until midnight on August 29.

• Statewide Accessibility: Special buses have been deployed to ensure seamless connectivity and comfortable transit for millions of sisters and mothers traveling to celebrate Raksha Bandhan.

Lifelong Free Transit for Women Above 60 Years

Beyond the three-day festival concession, the newly introduced Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrishakti Yojana establishes a permanent welfare framework for senior female citizens.

• Eligibility: Any woman aged 60 or older who is a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh can avail of free travel on regular roadways buses indefinitely following August 29.

• Verification Process: Eligible senior women can access the free service simply by presenting valid government-issued identification, such as a voter ID card or [Aadhaar Redacted].

Honoring the Legacy of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar

Highlighting the historic inspiration behind the scheme, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid glowing tributes to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, describing her as a legendary icon of women's self-reliance, empowerment, and exemplary good governance. He recalled her immense contributions to public welfare and cultural restoration, noting her historic efforts in renovating hundreds of sacred temples across India, including the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Somnath Temple.

With this visionary scheme, the Uttar Pradesh administration continues to blend cultural heritage with tangible social security, easing daily financial burdens and enhancing mobility for senior women across rural and urban communities.