The Pink Saheli Smart Card is a new initiative by the Delhi Government, launched on 2 March 2026, aimed at providing women and transgender residents of Delhi with free and unlimited travel on DTC and Cluster buses. It is designed to modernise public transport while ensuring safety, convenience, and financial relief for women and transgender people commuting in the city. The scheme reportedly replaces old paper tickets with a digital smart ID, also functioning as a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC).The card must be easy to use, with basic information, name, image, and QR code stored securely. In addition, the card can be used for travelling on the Delhi Metro after topping up the card. Social media has already begun to buzz with images of the card, and people appear to be looking forward to the ease, security, and independence that the card offers.
What is the Pink Saheli Smart Card and its features
The Pink Saheli Smart Card is reportedly designed for women and transgender residents aged five years and above. It provides unlimited travel on Delhi’s buses, eliminating the need for paper tickets. Users can tap the card on the ETM machine and simply take their seat. Experts say the card might significantly reduce monthly travel costs, potentially saving women Rs1,200–Rs2,400 each month. The scheme seems to balance financial support with convenience, while also promoting independence and safety. It also appears inclusive, encouraging transgender participation and ensuring equality in access to public transport.
Main features:
- Facility of free bus travel – unlimited free rides are allowed on DTC and Cluster buses.
- Smart Digital QR Card – helps in easy verification through EtM machines.
- Facility of Metro top-up – can be used as a prepaid Metro card.
- Facility of safe and independent travel – is especially useful for women travelling alone.
- Inclusive of transgender persons – promotes equality and participation.
- Promotes the use of public transport – supports the use of eco-friendly transport.
An initiative aimed at women’s empowerment, independence, and safety.
Pink Saheli Card: Eligibility and documents required
To apply for the Pink Saheli Smart Card, it seems the following conditions must be met:Eligibility and documents:
- Must be a resident of Delhi
- Must be a woman or transgender person
- Age should be 5 years or older
- Required documents:
- Valid Aadhaar card or Voter ID
- Proof of Delhi residence
- Active mobile number for registration
Experts say preparing these documents before visiting the centre makes the process much faster.
How to apply Pink Saheli Card offline
Currently, the card cannot be applied for online. The process reportedly works like this:Application locations: DC/SDM offices and designated DTC centres across Delhi. There are 50 authorised centres.
PC: DTC Delhi
Source: DTC Delhi
Benefits of the Pink Saheli Smart Card
Free travel for women and transgender citizens: Women and transgender citizens can use the DTC and cluster buses for free. This can benefit working women, students, and people who use buses daily.- Smart QR digital card: The card features a photo and QR code, making the verification process easier. There’s no need to use paper-based tickets anymore. Everything is digital, safe, and modern.
- Saves on monthly travel expenses: Travelling daily can result in significant monthly expenses. This card can save people Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,400 on a monthly basis. It’s a good support for the community.
- Safe and independent travel for women: Women can travel safely and independently at any time. The card appears to offer confidence and independence for women.
- Inclusion of the transgender community: The initiative fully includes the transgender community. This promotes equality and fair inclusion for all.
- Supports the use of eco-friendly transport: This card encourages the use of buses, reducing traffic and pollution. It aligns with the green initiatives of Delhi.
- Other opportunities: Besides the benefits of the card, people can consider the opportunities that franchises offer.
Pink Saheli Smart Card distribution details and overview
- Distribution start date: 3 March 2026
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Documents: Aadhaar or Voter ID, address proof, mobile number
- Verification: Aadhaar verification at the centre
- Instant issue: The card is reportedly handed over immediately after verification
- Limit: One card per eligible person to avoid duplication