Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), unveiled a new initiative to support Delhi’s students ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Kejriwal announced that if AAP returns to power, male students in schools and colleges will enjoy free bus services and a 50% discount on metro fares.

Currently, the Delhi government provides free bus rides for female passengers across all AC and non-AC buses. Expanding this initiative to male students aims to ease financial constraints on families, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Highlighting the rising costs of metro commuting, Kejriwal revealed his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the Central government to collaborate with the Delhi government to implement a 50% metro fare concession for students. As metro operations are jointly funded by the state and central governments, Kejriwal proposed sharing the expense equally, emphasizing it as a non-political, public interest issue.

“The metro is essential for Delhi’s students to commute to schools and colleges. Reducing their financial burden is a priority,” Kejriwal stated. He expressed optimism that the Prime Minister would support the initiative.

With the Delhi assembly elections scheduled for February 5, AAP has finalized candidates for all 70 seats. The party’s manifesto emphasizes education, transportation, and welfare schemes, solidifying its commitment to reducing economic barriers for students.

Kejriwal also criticized the escalating costs of commuting in the city and reaffirmed AAP’s focus on inclusive governance. The party believes this initiative will enhance accessibility to education while alleviating financial pressure on families.

As the elections approach, AAP’s promises are seen as a strategic move to attract student voters and their families, reinforcing the party’s focus on welfare and equity.