Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme – The state of Maharashtra has launched an initiative to offer free transportation services for senior citizens. On August 25, 2024, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde introduced the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme. This article provides insights into this beneficial program aimed at older adults in Maharashtra, detailing its objectives and the steps involved in availing its benefits.
Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme 2025
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a new program named the “Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme” on Twitter. The scheme is designed specifically for senior citizens, allowing those who are 75 years and older to travel free of charge on MSRTC buses. To commemorate the 75th anniversary of India’s independence, the state aims to benefit approximately 1.5 lakh senior citizens aged 75 and above until August 26. Furthermore, from Independence Day until August 26, 2024, older citizens using MSRTC buses can get a refund of their travel expenses.
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This initiative aligns with the state government’s objective to leverage the vast network of MSRTC buses. With a reputation for being among the cleanest modes of public transport, MSRTC operates over 16,000 buses, including the introduction of 200 new air-conditioned electric buses on the Mumbai-Pune route. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, MSRTC buses catered to approximately 65 lakh passengers daily.
राज्यातील ७५ वर्षांवरील जेष्ठ नागरिकांना एसटीतून मोफत प्रवास योजनेच्या प्रमाणपत्रांचे वितरण आज करण्यात आले. देशाच्या अमृत महोत्सवानिमित्त राज्यातील ७५ वर्षांवरील ज्येष्ठ नागरिकांना एसटी बसमधून मोफत प्रवास योजनेचा लाभ राज्यातील सुमारे १५ लाख ज्येष्ठ नागरिकांना मिळणार आहे. pic.twitter.com/seJXrfOQ4g — Eknath Shinde – एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) August 25, 2024
Key Details of the MSRTC Free Travel Scheme
| Scheme Name | Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme |
| Inaugurated By | CM Eknath Shinde |
| Launch Date | August 25, 2024 |
| Benefits | Free travel for senior citizens |
| Objectives | Financial assistance for senior citizens |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Residents of Maharashtra above 75 years |
Goals of the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme
The primary aim of launching the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme is to provide financial relief to senior citizens facing economic challenges. In light of the ongoing struggles posed by the pandemic and rising costs, this transport initiative offers much-needed support for those who are unable to work and earn.
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Benefits of the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme
- The scheme aims to provide economic support to senior citizens, the core reason for its introduction.
- Eligible seniors can use free travel services on MSRTC buses by presenting the required identification documents.
- Note that this service is not applicable on MSRTC city buses and is limited to intrastate travel.
- Senior citizens aged between 65 to 75 will receive a 50% discount on select bus services offered by MSRTC.
- This announcement by the Chief Minister came during a cabinet meeting post-Independence Day as part of the celebrations for Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Eligibility Criteria for MSRTC Free Travel Scheme
To qualify for the benefits under this scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a resident of Maharashtra and an Indian citizen.
- Must be aged 75 or older.
- Travel must be exclusively on MSRTC buses.
- Travel must be conducted within the state’s boundaries.
Required Documents for the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme
To use this bus service, seniors are required to present the following documents:
- An identification card (options include PAN card, Aadhar card, driving license, or Voter’s card).
- A valid mobile number.
Steps to Avail Benefits of the Maharashtra Free Travel Scheme
- Seniors must present their identification documents, which may include options like an Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, or voter’s card.
- Once the documents are verified, eligible seniors can enjoy free rides on MSRTC buses.
- Please note that this facility is not available on city buses and is limited to travel within Maharashtra only.