Maharashtra government has decided to provide a 50% discount on bus fares for school and college educational trips, aiming to promote affordable, eco-friendly travel and encourage students to participate in extracurricular learning experiences.
In a bid to support educational institutions and promote affordable access to learning outside the classroom, the Maharashtra government has unveiled a 50% fare concession on bus travel specifically for school and college educational trips. Announced on November 17, 2025, this initiative aims to ease the financial burden on institutions and families while fostering experiential learning opportunities for students.
Key Highlights:
Significant Fare Reduction: Educational trips for school and college students will be eligible for a half-price discount on bus tickets, encompassing both state-run and government-supported private bus services.
Objective: The discount is designed to encourage schools and colleges to organize field visits, excursions, and other educational tours that enrich students’ academic and cultural exposure.
Eco-Friendly Promotion: Encouraging bus travel aligns with the state’s sustainability goals, reducing carbon footprints versus individual travel modes like cars or bikes.
Implementation Mechanism: The discount will apply upon presentation of valid school or college identity cards and prior approval for educational trip status, ensuring the concession is strictly used for educational purposes.
Supporting Institutions: The government expects the fare cut to alleviate costs for educational institutions, making off-campus learning more accessible across socioeconomic strata.
Complementing Scheme: The move complements Maharashtra’s broader educational policies, supporting holistic development alongside focused academic achievements.
Public Transport Enhancement: The government is also investing in improving bus infrastructure and services to reliably meet the anticipated rise in student passengers.
Officials believe this forward-thinking program will increase participation in field trips, cultural exposure, and experiential learning—critical components of comprehensive education. It also reinforces the government’s commitment to support youth development through practical incentives.
Sources: Times of India, Indian Express, Maharashtra Government Press Release, NDTV.