Delhi cm
The scheme aims to benefit 1.30 lakh girls enrolled in Delhi government schools.
Delhi government’s major budget announcement introducing free bicycles for Class IX girl students, CM Rekha Gupta on Thursday distributed cycles and school bags to nearly 1,100 girls at Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Shalimar Bagh. The distribution took place after Kanya Pujan celebrations, marking a symbolic blend of policy rollout and cultural observance.
The ‘free bicycle scheme’ was among the key highlights of the Delhi Budget for 2026–27, presented earlier this week by the CM. The initiative is expected to benefit around 1.30 lakh girls studying in government schools across the capital, with the aim of improving access to education and encouraging regular attendance.
Sharing her thoughts on the occasion, the CM referred to the significance of Durga Ashtami, noting that the day reflects devotion, strength, and the divine presence symbolised in every girl. She described the Kanya Pujan ceremony as a gesture of respect towards young girls, who are regarded as embodiments of the Mother Goddess.
The CM also emphasised the broader message behind the tradition, stating that daughters represent the light of a home, carry forward values, and embody hope for the future. She added that honouring girls is not just a ritual but a reminder that true prosperity lies in respecting and empowering them.The event highlighted the Delhi government’s focus on girls’ education and the cultural importance of recognising their role in society, as the scheme begins its implementation phase across Delhi.
“With the same faith and resolve, bicycles were provided to 1,100 daughters today. From this year, our government has made a provision in the Budget to provide bicycles to 1,30,000 daughters who have passed Class 9 in Delhi’s government schools. This will make their commute easier, reduce dropouts, and ease parents’ worries,” the Delhi CM Rekha Gupta said.
The Delhi CM further emphasised the larger vision behind the initiative, stating that the future of the capital will be shaped by empowered young girls. “Delhi’s future will shine bright through the flight of these daughters. This is the prayer to Mother Durga — that every daughter becomes empowered, every home is filled with happiness and prosperity, and this confluence of devotion and power endures forever,” the Delhi CM added.
To support the scheme, the Delhi CM has allocated ₹90 crore in the budget. Notably, Rekha Gupta also holds the Finance Department portfolio, underscoring her direct role in shaping and implementing this key welfare initiative.
Transportation often poses a significant challenge for girls studying in Delhi government schools, frequently leading to dropouts. Addressing this issue, the Delhi government has announced, for the first time, the provision of free bicycles to girl students to make their journey to school easier. Highlighting the intent behind the move, it was said that girls in Delhi will no longer be left stranded or dependent on others, as this initiative aims to give them greater independence and mobility.
During the budget speech, it was emphasised that the goal of the Delhi government is to ensure that girl students continue their education and become self-reliant. To support this vision, a budget allocation of ₹90 crore has been made to provide free bicycles to Class IX girl students in Delhi government schools.
Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood also outlined the implementation plan, stating that with the beginning of the new fiscal year in April, tenders for the procurement of bicycles will be issued. He added that within the next two to three months, the scheme will be rolled out on the ground for students across Delhi government schools.
He further noted that the government will closely monitor the scheme, with quarterly reviews of budget allocation, expenditure, and overall implementation to ensure its effectiveness.