The Saheli Smart Card Scheme, officially known as the Pink Saheli Smart Card or Pink Saheli Card Yojana, represents a landmark initiative by the Delhi Government to revolutionize public transportation for women and transgender residents. Launched on March 2, 2026, by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework, the scheme replaces the outdated paper-based pink ticket system (introduced in 2019) with a modern, personalized, contactless smart card.
This digital upgrade aims to provide free, unlimited travel on DTC and cluster (orange) buses while enhancing safety, transparency, and convenience. The pink-colored card, embossed with the holder's photo, name, and a unique QR code, is Aadhaar-linked and mobile-verified to prevent misuse and ensure benefits reach only bona fide Delhi residents. It also functions as an NCMC for seamless integration with Delhi Metro and the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) upon recharging.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta hailed the scheme as a step towards women's empowerment, safety, and inclusive mobility, especially for daily commuters, students, working professionals, and the transgender community. With over 50 distribution counters operational since March 3, 2026, the initiative has already issued thousands of cards in its initial rollout phase, saving commuters an estimated ₹1,200–₹2,400 monthly in fares.
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Background and Objectives of the Saheli Smart Card Scheme
Delhi's public transport has long supported free rides for women via pink paper tickets on DTC buses to encourage safer commuting and reduce dependency on private vehicles. However, issues like ticket misuse, manual verification delays, and lack of data for route planning prompted the shift to a smart card system.
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| Saheli Smart Card Scheme Delhi 2026 |
Announced in mid-2025 and rolled out in early 2026, the Saheli Scheme aligns with the "One Delhi, One Card" vision. It promotes eco-friendly travel by boosting bus usage, reduces traffic congestion and pollution, and fosters gender-inclusive policies. The card's NCMC technology allows top-up functionality, making it a versatile travel companion beyond free bus rides.
The scheme is managed by DTC in collaboration with participating banks and fintech partners like Mufinpay for streamlined issuance. It targets approximately two crore women commuters, emphasizing dignity, speed, and security in daily travel.
Saheli Smart Card Scheme Delhi Highlights
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2 March 2026 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Women & Transgender residents of Delhi |
| Minimum Age | 5 years and above (mostly confirmed as 12+ in many sources) |
| Main Benefit | Unlimited Free Travel on all DTC & Cluster buses |
| Card Type | Pink-coloured NCMC Smart Card (with photo, name & QR code) |
| Additional Features | Works as NCMC for Delhi Metro & RRTS (after recharging) |
| Eligibility | Delhi resident + Woman/Transgender + Valid Aadhaar/Voter ID |
| Key Documents | Aadhaar (Delhi address preferred), Passport-size photo, Active mobile number |
| Application Method | Primarily Offline at DC/SDM offices, DTC centres & 50+ counters |
| Online Option | Self-onboarding QR via partner portal (Mufinpay), then collect card offline |
| Monthly Savings | ₹1,200 – ₹2,400 for regular commuters |
| Validity | 5 years (renewable) |
| Replacement Fee | ₹59 (in case of loss) |
| Old Pink Paper Tickets | Still valid during transition period |
Pm Rahat Scheme
Eligibility Criteria for Saheli Smart Card
To avail the benefits, applicants must strictly meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a bona fide resident of Delhi with valid proof of address (Aadhaar card showing Delhi address is preferred and often sufficient).
- Gender: Open exclusively to women (including girls) and transgender individuals.
- Age: Minimum 12 years or above (some sources mention 5+ years for broader inclusion of school-going girls, but official verification ties to Aadhaar/Voter ID).
- Other Requirements: Valid Aadhaar card or Voter ID linked to Delhi address; active mobile number for OTP verification and updates. One card per eligible person to avoid duplication.
Non-residents, males (except transgender), and those below the minimum age are ineligible. Full KYC verification ensures transparency, with the card valid for 5 years (subject to renewal).
Key Benefits of the Saheli Smart Card
The Pink Saheli Smart Card offers multifaceted advantages that go beyond free travel:
- Unlimited Free Bus Travel: 100% free and unlimited rides on all DTC and cluster buses across Delhi. Simply tap the card on the Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM) with the conductor—no paper tickets, no cash, no questions asked.
- Metro and RRTS Integration: The card doubles as an NCMC. Recharge it online or at metro stations for paid travel on Delhi Metro and RRTS, enabling "one card for all" mobility.
- Enhanced Safety and Security: Personalized with photo, name, and QR code for instant digital verification. Aadhaar linkage prevents fraud and ensures only verified users benefit. Ideal for solo women travelers, night shifts, or students.
- Financial Savings: Regular commuters save ₹1,200–₹2,400 per month, freeing up income for education, health, or family needs. No more daily ticket hassles.
- Convenience and Speed: Tap-and-go boarding reduces wait times. Digital tracking helps DTC optimize routes based on real usage data.
- Inclusivity and Empowerment: Extends benefits to transgender residents, promoting equality. Encourages greater female workforce participation by making commutes affordable and safe.
- Environmental Impact: Shifts more people to public buses, cutting private vehicle usage, emissions, and congestion.
In comparison to the old pink paper ticket system
| Feature | Old Pink Paper Ticket | Pink Saheli Smart Card |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Single-use paper | Durable PVC NCMC smart card |
| Verification | Manual by conductor | QR code + photo (digital) |
| Interoperability | Buses only | Buses (free) + Metro/RRTS (paid) |
| Durability | Low (tears easily) | High (5-year validity) |
| Data Tracking | None | Enables better route planning |
| Misuse Prevention | High risk | Aadhaar-linked, low risk |
Documents Required for Application
Prepare these documents for smooth processing:
- Identity & Age Proof: Aadhaar card or Voter ID (must show Delhi address).
- Address Proof: Aadhaar, electricity bill, ration card, or voter ID confirming Delhi residency.
- Photograph: One recent passport-size photo (physical for offline; scanned for online).
- Mobile Number: Active and linked to Aadhaar for OTPs.
- Optional: PAN card or school ID for additional verification.
- No application fee for the first card.
How to Apply for Saheli Smart Card: Step-by-Step Guide (Online and Offline)
Note on Online Application (as of April 2026): While many portals and news articles mention an online process via the DTC website or dedicated Pink Saheli portal, it is not fully active on the main DTC site (dtc.delhi.gov.in). A third-party facilitated self-onboarding option exists through authorized partners like Mufinpay for faster QR-based collection. Offline remains the primary and most reliable method. Always verify via official DTC counters or dtc.delhi.gov.in to avoid scams.
Offline Application (Recommended and Most Common)
- Locate one of the 50 authorized centers: DC/DM Offices, SDM Offices, designated DTC depots, or Common Service Centres (CSCs). A full list of counters is available on dtc.delhi.gov.in under "NCMC Womens Pink Card Distribution Counters."
- Visit during operating hours (typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily).
- Fill the application form (available on-site) with personal details matching Aadhaar.
- Submit documents and passport-size photo.
- Undergo instant Aadhaar-based verification (biometric/OTP).
- Receive the physical Pink Saheli Smart Card immediately or within minutes.
Online Application Process (Via Facilitated Portal)
- Visit the self-onboarding link: https://pink-saheli.mufinpay.com/user-service/self/ncmc/onboarding (Mufinpay DTC partner portal) or check dtc.delhi.gov.in for official updates.
- Enter your mobile number and verify via OTP.
- Input Aadhaar number and complete Aadhaar OTP verification (consents shared with DTC).
- Download the acknowledgement QR code/acknowledgement number.
- Visit any Pink Card issuance booth/counter with the QR code, documents, and photo.
- Get the physical card issued instantly after final verification.
Alternative Online Steps (if DTC portal activates fully):
- Go to dtc.delhi.gov.in or dedicated Saheli portal.
- Register with mobile number → Fill name, DOB, address (as per Aadhaar).
- Upload scanned documents and photo.
- Submit for backend verification → Card delivered via Speed Post in 7–10 days.
Post-Application Tips:
- Link the card to your mobile for usage tracking.
- Recharge for Metro via app, station AVMs, or QR scan.
- Report loss immediately for replacement (₹59 fee).
- Old pink paper tickets remain valid during transition (up to 3 months in some reports).
How to Use the Saheli Smart Card
- On Buses: Board any DTC or cluster bus, tap the card on the conductor's ETM. Green light confirms free ride—sit back and relax.
- On Metro/RRTS: Tap at entry gates after recharging the card's wallet.
- Validity Check: QR code displayed for random inspections.
- Top-Up: Scan QR on card back or use DTC/Metro apps.
The system is paperless, fast, and user-friendly, reducing conductor interactions and enhancing safety.
Impact, Challenges, and Future Prospects
The Saheli Scheme has been praised for its inclusivity and modernization but faced initial debates on implementation logistics and data privacy. With full KYC and digital tracking, it minimizes leakages while generating valuable commuter data for policy-making.
Challenges include scaling to all 50+ centers, educating users (especially in rural Delhi pockets), and ensuring Metro integration parity. Long-term, it could expand to more transport modes or other states.
Experts predict higher female labor force participation, reduced road accidents involving women, and a greener Delhi. As of early April 2026, thousands of cards have been distributed, signaling strong adoption.
| Official Website | Click Here |
|---|---|
| List of NCMC Card Distribution Counters | Download |
| Central Govt Scheme | Click Here |
| Sarkari Yojana | Click Here |
| Join Telegram | Telegram |
Conclusion
The Saheli Smart Card Scheme Delhi 2025–26 is more than a travel pass—it's a symbol of empowerment, safety, and digital governance. By offering free, secure, and seamless mobility, it addresses core issues of affordability and gender equity in urban India. Eligible women and transgender residents of Delhi are urged to apply at the earliest through official channels.
For the latest updates, visit the official DTC website (dtc.delhi.gov.in), call the DTC helpline, or check distribution counters. Prepare your Aadhaar and mobile—your Pink Saheli journey awaits! This initiative not only saves money but redefines dignity in daily commutes, making Delhi a model for women-friendly public transport nationwide.
FAQs on Saheli Smart Card Scheme Delhi 2026
Q. What is Saheli Smart Card?
Pink NCMC smart card for unlimited free travel on all DTC & Cluster buses for women and transgender residents of Delhi.
Q. Who is eligible?
Women & Transgender persons who are bona fide residents of Delhi, aged 5+ / 12+ years.
Q. Is Aadhaar mandatory?
Yes. Delhi address on Aadhaar is preferred + active mobile number.
Q. What documents are needed?
Aadhaar card (Delhi address), passport-size photo, active mobile number. No fee for first card.
Q. How to apply?
Mainly Offline: Visit DC/SDM office, DTC depot or 50+ authorised centres. Card issued instantly after verification.
Q. Is online application available?
Partial: Use Mufinpay self-onboarding portal (pink-saheli.mufinpay.com) → get QR → collect card offline at centre. Full online not active yet.
Q. What are the main benefits?
Unlimited free bus rides + card works as NCMC for Delhi Metro & RRTS (after recharging). Saves ₹1,200–2,400 monthly.
Q. Can I use it in Metro?
Yes, but only after recharging the card wallet. Bus travel remains completely free.
Q. Is the card personalised?
Yes. It has your photo, name & QR code for security and verification.
Q. What is the validity?
5 years (renewable). Replacement cost ₹59 if lost.
Q. Are old pink paper tickets still valid?
Yes, during transition period. No need to rush.
Q. Is there any fee?
Card is free. No charge for free bus travel.