Traveling for women in West Bengal is all set to become way more affordable. Starting June 1, bus travel will become absolutely free for women in all government-run buses. The decision was taken by the newly sworn-in Chief Minister of the state, Suvendu Adhikari, in his maiden cabinet meeting. In addition to this, Ayushman Bharat, the flagship programme by the central government, will also be implemented in the state. Here are all the details.
Free Bus Travel For Women In West Bengal
This transformative new scheme will be rolled out on June 1. The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting held on May 11, 2026. This was the first-ever cabinet meeting in West Bengal held by the newly elected CM.
One of the chief aims of the meeting was transparency and aligning the state with all the policies that the center has passed. Owing to certain issues, many of the policies had not been implemented in the region.
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This is one of the things that the CM aims to rectify. As such, many other state-sanctioned schemes will also be implemented, effective immediately.
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Ayushman Bharat To Be Implemented
In addition to the free bus travel for women, West Bengal will also implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Under this scheme, the citizens of the state will be eligible for up to INR five lakh in cashless health coverage.
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This scheme is particularly for people who are under the Below Poverty Line (BPL). Senior citizens over the age of 70 years, irrespective of income slab, will also be eligible for this scheme.
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FAQs
When Does Ayushman Bharat Start In West Bengal?
From June 1.
Who Is Eligible For Free Bus Travel?
All women who are residents of West Bengal are eligible for this scheme.
What Are Ayushman Bharat’s Benefits?
All people under BPL and over 70 years of age get insurance of INR 5 lakh per year for hospitalization.
