Pink Saheli Smart Card: What is the ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’, who can apply for it, and what is the age limit... Know everything

Women who rely on free travel in Delhi government buses are set to experience major changes next year. The Delhi government is preparing to replace the existing pink ticket system with a more secure and digital “Pink Saheli Smart Card” from 2026. Once this system rolls out, women will be required to use this smart card to continue enjoying free rides on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses.

This new move is aimed at improving convenience, preventing misuse, and making the free travel program more technology-driven. The card will only be issued to female residents of Delhi.

Who Can Apply? Minimum Age, Eligibility & Aadhaar Rule

As per DTC guidelines:

✔ Minimum age to apply: 12 years
✔ Applicant must be a woman residing in Delhi
✔ Aadhaar card with a Delhi address is mandatory

Women who meet these criteria can apply and avail the scheme. At the time of boarding the bus, passengers will need to tap the card on the Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM) held by the conductor.

The scheme is designed specifically for Delhi residents. Women living in NCR districts like Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, or Faridabad without a Delhi-based Aadhaar will not be eligible for this benefit.

When Will Pink Saheli Smart Cards Be Issued?

According to initial information, the rollout of the Pink Saheli Card may begin from 14 January 2026.
DTC has already selected two private agencies to manage the process.

To ensure easy access, dedicated enrollment counters will be set up at:

• District Magistrate (DM) offices

• SDM offices

• DTC bus depots

• Common Service Centres (CSC)

Women can visit any of these locations to register and collect their smart card.

No Income-Based Restriction

Unlike some welfare schemes, there is no income limit.
Every eligible female commuter living in Delhi can apply, irrespective of her financial background.

Why the Shift from Pink Tickets to Smart Cards?

The free bus travel scheme for women was originally launched in 2019 by the then Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government using pink paper tickets.
Now, the present government plans to move to a digital smart card system for:

• More efficient verification

• Reduced misuse of free tickets

• Faster, seamless boarding

• Better data-based planning of women’s transport needs

This transition is expected to enhance both safety and transparency in daily public transport usage by women.

What It Means for Women Commuters

With more than 20 million women traveling by DTC buses every month, this smart card is likely to become a daily necessity for female passengers. Women are advised to complete Aadhaar updates and keep required documents ready ahead of registrations in early 2026.