Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra: Free Roadways Travel for Elderly Women in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched the Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra Yojana, a major women-centric welfare initiative aimed at strengthening mobility, dignity and social inclusion among elderly women across the state. Under the scheme, women aged 60 years and above will be provided free travel facilities in Uttar Pradesh Roadways buses, enabling them to undertake journeys independently without depending on family members for transportation expenses.

During an interaction with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, several elderly women expressed their happiness over the initiative and said that the free travel facility would allow them to visit important religious and cultural destinations such as Ayodhya and Kashi whenever they wish. They described the scheme as a meaningful support for senior women, particularly those who may otherwise face financial or logistical constraints while travelling.

The initiative also received appreciation from daughters and family members, who welcomed the government’s focus on enhancing the independence and dignity of women. The interaction reflected the emotional connect of beneficiaries with the welfare-oriented approach of the state government.

The government has also announced a special Raksha Bandhan initiative under which mothers and sisters will be able to undertake free travel along with one co-passenger from August 27, facilitating safe and convenient mobility during the festival.

The Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra Yojana represents the Uttar Pradesh government’s continued emphasis on women’s welfare, social security and accessible public transport. By reducing travel-related financial barriers, the initiative seeks to empower elderly women to participate more freely in religious, social and family activities while promoting inclusive and citizen-centric governance.