17 January, 2025; As Delhi gears up for the much-anticipated 2025 Assembly elections, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has made a major announcement that is set to resonate with the city’s student population. Addressing a large gathering at a rally, Kejriwal unveiled a key promise: after the elections, students in Delhi will be entitled to free travel in all Delhi buses and a 50% discount on metro fares.
The announcement is part of the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) broader strategy to focus on social welfare initiatives that directly impact everyday lives. “Education has always been at the core of our governance. By easing the burden of transportation costs, we aim to empower students and support their aspirations,” Kejriwal said during his speech.
Key Highlights of the Announcement:
- Free Bus Travel for Students:
- Students will be able to travel for free in all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses across the city.
- This initiative builds upon the existing free travel scheme for women, which was launched in 2019 and has been widely praised.
- 50% Discount on Metro Fares:
- For the first time, students will enjoy a 50% concession on metro fares, providing significant relief for those who rely on the metro for their daily commute.
- The move is expected to benefit lakhs of students, particularly those commuting from the outskirts of Delhi to educational institutions in the city.
Impact of the Announcement
The announcement has garnered widespread attention and sparked discussions across political and social circles. Students and parents have expressed enthusiasm about the proposed scheme.
“This will really help us save money and focus more on our studies,” said Rohan Sharma, a college student from East Delhi. Parents have also hailed the move as a significant step towards reducing the financial strain on families.
However, critics have raised questions about the financial feasibility of the proposal. The opposition parties have called it an election gimmick, accusing the AAP government of making promises without clear plans for implementation. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress have demanded a detailed roadmap and financial breakdown of the proposed initiative.
AAP’s History of Welfare Policies
This announcement is consistent with the AAP’s track record of rolling out people-centric policies. From subsidized electricity and water to the Mohalla Clinics initiative, the party has focused on governance that directly impacts the common man. The education sector, in particular, has seen major reforms under the AAP government, including the revamping of government schools and the introduction of “Happiness Curriculum.”
Election Landscape
The 2025 Delhi Assembly elections are shaping up to be a high-stakes contest. AAP will look to retain its stronghold in Delhi, while opposition parties aim to make inroads. With promises like free bus travel and discounted metro fares for students, AAP is doubling down on its commitment to the welfare of Delhiites, particularly the youth.
As the campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on how these promises influence voter sentiment and whether AAP’s focus on social welfare will secure another term for Kejriwal’s leadership.
