Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026: Eligibility, How to Apply, Documents, Benefits and Free DTC Bus Travel Details
The Delhi government is set to roll out the Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026, introducing a digital system that will provide free and unlimited bus travel to eligible women and transgender residents in the national capital. The scheme replaces the earlier pink paper ticket system with a QR-based smart identity card and aims to streamline public transport services operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses.
While the formal launch of the scheme is scheduled for March 2, distribution of the smart cards is expected to begin from the first week of January. If the rollout proceeds as planned, the scheme may become operational after January 14. Announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in November, the initiative is positioned as a significant step toward digitised, safer and more inclusive public transport.
Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026: Key Highlights of the Free DTC Bus Travel Scheme
- Formal launch on March 2
- Distribution of smart cards from the first week of January
- Free and unlimited travel on DTC and cluster buses
- Eligible for women and transgender residents aged 12 years and above
- Replaces the earlier pink paper ticket system
- Operates on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) platform
- Can be used in Delhi Metro after recharge
- May function as an ATM card for withdrawals and shopping
- Issued through Airtel Payments Bank and Muffin Payments Bank
- Available through online and offline application process
What Is the Pink Saheli Smart Card?
The Pink Saheli Smart Card is introduced under the Pink Saheli Smart Card Yojana by the Delhi government. It is a digital, KYC-enabled smart identity card designed to replace manual ticket distribution.
The card displays:
- Applicant’s name
- Photograph
- QR code
- Basic verified details
Instead of collecting a paper ticket, eligible commuters will tap the card on the electronic ticketing machine inside DTC and cluster buses. The journey will be recorded digitally, reducing paperwork and eliminating the need for repeated interaction with conductors.
The card is based on the National Common Mobility Card platform, allowing multi-modal usage.
Who Is Eligible for Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026?
To apply for the Pink Saheli Smart Card, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be a woman or transgender person
- Must be a resident of Delhi
- Must be 12 years of age or above
- Must possess a valid Aadhaar card or Voter ID
- Must provide Delhi residential address proof
The government has clearly stated that the card will be issued only to women residents of Delhi.
Documents Required for Pink Saheli Smart Card Application
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Aadhaar card with Delhi address
- Voter ID or PAN card as identity proof
- Passport-size photograph
- Address proof
- Valid mobile number for OTP verification
- Email ID
The mobile number is mandatory for registration and verification.
How to Apply for Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026
Online Application Process
Eligible applicants can apply through the official Delhi Transport or DTC portal by following these steps:
- Visit the official DTC or Delhi Transport website
- Fill in the Pink Saheli Smart Card application form
- Upload required documents
- Submit the form and wait for verification
- After approval, the smart card will be delivered to the registered address by post
Currently, the online application process has not started. The website will update automatically once applications open.
Offline Application Process
To ensure accessibility, banks have been instructed to open application counters at:
- District Magistrate offices
- Sub-Divisional Magistrate offices
- Bus depots
- Bus stands
- Common Service Centres (Jan Suvidha Kendras)
- Selected banks
The responsibility for setting up and managing these counters rests with the selected banks.
Banks Finalised for Issuing Smart Cards
The Delhi Transport Department has finalised:
- Airtel Payments Bank
- Muffin Payments Bank
These banks will issue three types of smart cards for bus passengers under full KYC norms.
Types of Smart Cards Under the Scheme
- Pink Saheli Card
Issued exclusively to women residents aged 12 and above. Offers unlimited free travel on DTC and cluster buses. - Blue Card
Issued for men. - Orange Card
Issued for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, sportspersons, war widows, national award winners and more than 12 additional concession categories.
Additionally, a general smart card will be available for any bus passenger.
General Smart Card Details
- Minimum initial payment of Rs 120 required
- Rechargeable
- Works like a Metro card
- Can be used in Delhi Metro
- Issued under full KYC compliance
- Includes passenger’s name and photograph
Can Pink Saheli Smart Card Be Used in Delhi Metro?
The Pink Saheli Smart Card offers unlimited free travel only on DTC and cluster buses.
However, it can be used in Delhi Metro services after recharge. The free travel benefit does not apply to Metro services.
Benefits of Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026
Free Unlimited Bus Travel
Eligible women and transgender residents can travel without daily ticket purchases.
Financial Savings
Daily commuters may save a significant amount every month.
Digital and Paperless System
The QR-based smart card eliminates the need for pink paper tickets.
Enhanced Convenience
Passengers can tap and travel without waiting in queues.
Data-Based Transport Planning
Digital journey records will allow authorities to identify high-demand routes and manage bus deployment more effectively.
Currently, around two crore women travel by buses in Delhi every month, highlighting the scale of impact expected from this initiative.
Official Announcement by the Chief Minister
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta introduced the Pink Saheli Smart Card in November through a post on X. She stated that daughters, sisters and mothers above 12 years of age would be able to travel free and conveniently on DTC and cluster buses. She described the initiative as a major step toward promoting public transport usage and supporting women’s empowerment.
DTC Helpline and Contact Details
Pass Section — Delhi Transport Corporation
Scindia House, KG Marg
Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Phone: 011-23752769–75 (Ext. 226)
Mobile: +91-87440-73213
Email: bus-pass@dtc.nic.in
Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on working days
Spiritual Insight: The Unique Knowledge of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj
While schemes like the Pink Saheli Smart Card promote safety and dignity for women, true empowerment also requires spiritual awareness. Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj teaches that real social upliftment begins with Satgyan, the true knowledge described in holy scriptures.
According to his teachings, equality, respect for women and moral living are spiritual duties of society. When material reforms are supported by true spiritual understanding, a balanced, safe and progressive society can be built.
A Structured Digital Reform for Women’s Free Bus Travel in Delhi
The Pink Saheli Smart Card marks a transition from a manual ticket-based concession system to a structured, digital public transport framework. By integrating QR-based verification, KYC compliance and the National Common Mobility Card platform, the Delhi government is moving toward a more transparent and organised mobility system.
With defined eligibility rules, multiple smart card categories, Metro compatibility after recharge and structured bank-led issuance, the initiative aims to benefit lakhs of women and transgender commuters who rely on DTC and cluster buses for daily travel.
FAQs on Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026
1. What is the Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026?
Pink Saheli Smart Card is a Delhi government scheme offering free and unlimited DTC and cluster bus travel to eligible women and transgender residents aged 12 years and above.
2. Who is eligible for the Pink Saheli Smart Card in Delhi?
Women and transgender residents of Delhi aged 12 years or above with valid Aadhaar or Voter ID and Delhi address proof are eligible to apply.
3. How can I apply for Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026 online?
Visit the official DTC or Delhi Transport portal, fill the application form, upload required documents, submit for verification, and receive the approved card by post.
4. Can Pink Saheli Smart Card be used in Delhi Metro?
Yes, the card can be used in Delhi Metro after recharge, but free travel benefits apply only to DTC and cluster bus services.
5. What documents are required for the Pink Saheli Smart Card application?
Applicants need an Aadhaar card with Delhi address, Voter ID or PAN, passport-size photograph, address proof, and a valid mobile number for OTP verification.
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