JAMMU: In a landmark move aimed at empowering women in Jammu and Kashmir, Finance Minister Omar Abdullah announced free public transport for all women starting from April 1, 2025. Under this initiative, women will be able to travel free of cost on all government-owned public transport, including eBuses. Speaking during his budget speech, Omar Abdullah emphasised that this step would ease financial burdens, improve access to education and employment, and ensure safer, more affordable travel for women across the region. He urged the House to support this initiative as a progressive step towards greater economic independence and inclusivity for women in Jammu and Kashmir.
Further strengthening financial support for women from economically weaker sections, the government has enhanced the financial assistance under the Marriage Assistance Scheme. The aid for AAY category girls has been increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, providing much-needed relief to underprivileged families. The administration also pledged to streamline the scheme’s implementation and allocate sufficient funds to expand its reach.
The budget speech highlighted broader efforts to boost women’s economic participation. Over seven lakh women are now engaged in 90,000 self-help groups (SHGs), and three lakh women farmers have received training. Nearly two lakh agricultural nutrition gardens have been established to improve household food security. Under the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, the government aims to support 40,000 women in setting up micro-startups, ensuring they earn a sustainable income of at least Rs 1 lakh per year.
Additionally, the government is expanding support systems for women in distress and working women. Five new Sakhi Niwas facilities will be established in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Kathua, and Rajouri, providing safe accommodation for working women and those pursuing education or training. In a significant measure for women facing crisis situations, 11 new Shakti Sadans will be set up across different districts, offering shelter, care, and rehabilitation services.
Recognising the need for social support beyond women’s empowerment, the government also announced the completion of a Halfway Home in 2025-26. This facility will provide shelter, rehabilitation, and reintegration assistance to mentally cured individuals, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to the welfare of vulnerable sections of society.
With these announcements, Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his government’s dedication to financial security, social protection, and greater economic opportunities for women in Jammu and Kashmir.
