In a heartwarming move to celebrate the spirit of Raksha Bandhan 2025, several Indian states including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan have announced free bus travel for women and girls on the festival day.

 The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will provide 24-hour free rides starting midnight on August 18, while Haryana Roadways is allowing complimentary travel from noon on August 18 to noon on August 19. Rajasthan is also offering free rides on all non-AC and general category buses. These initiatives not only ease festive travel for women but also highlight the commitment of state governments toward social welfare, safety, and women’s empowerment during major cultural celebrations. Although the Indian Railways has not rolled out a similar nationwide policy, localized ladies-special trains may operate in select regions.