Haryana Happy Card Scheme: Free Travel for Citizens with Annual Income Below ₹1 Lakh
Upon successful registration, beneficiaries will be entitled to travel up to 1,000 kilometers annually, free of cost. The issuance of the smart card requires a minimal fee of ₹50, making it affordable for everyone.
The Haryana government has introduced the Haryana Happy Card Scheme a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing free travel benefits to economically weaker sections of society. This scheme is expected to benefit approximately 23 lakh individuals across the state, allowing them to travel up to 1,000 kilometers annually for free on Haryana Roadways buses.
What is Haryana Happy Card Scheme?
The Happy Card Scheme was initially proposed by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. It offers eligible residents the opportunity to travel without any cost in state-run buses. The scheme is aimed at reducing financial burdens on low-income families while encouraging the use of public transport.
Under this program, beneficiaries will be issued a smart card which will act as their travel pass. This card is valid only for Haryana Roadways buses and cannot be used for private transport.
Eligibility Criteria for Happy Card Scheme
The Haryana Happy Card Scheme is designed for individuals who fall within specific income brackets. Below are the eligibility criteria:
- Annual Income: Applicants must have a family income of ₹1 lakh or less per year.
- Residence: Applicants must be permanent residents of Haryana.
- Age: Individuals of any age can apply, provided they meet the income criterion.
Upon successful registration, beneficiaries will be entitled to travel up to 1,000 kilometers annually, free of cost. The issuance of the smart card requires a minimal fee of ₹50, making it affordable for everyone.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Haryana Happy Card
To apply for the Haryana Happy Card, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Official Website
- Select the Happy Card Option
- Click on the APPLY HAPPY CARD button.
- Enter Family ID
- Provide your Family ID (Parivar Pehchan Patra) number.
- An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- Verify and Select Beneficiary
- Once the OTP is verified, a list of family members will appear.
- Select the member for whom the card is to be issued.
- Provide Aadhaar Details
- Enter the Aadhaar number of the selected beneficiary.
- Complete OTP verification linked to the Aadhaar.
- Pay Registration Fee
- A nominal fee of ₹50 must be paid for card processing.
- Complete Application
- After successful submission, your Happy Card will be generated.
Applicants will receive a digital copy of their Happy Card, which can be printed for convenience.
Benefits of Haryana Happy Card
- Free Travel Facility
- The scheme allows eligible individuals to travel up to 1,000 kilometers annually without any charges.
- Promotes Public Transport
- It encourages the use of Haryana Roadways buses, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
- Financial Relief
- Low-income families can save significantly on travel expenses.
- Smart Card Convenience
- The digital card simplifies the process of travel and eliminates the need for paper tickets.
Key Points to Remember
- The Happy Card is only valid in Haryana Roadways buses.
- It is non-transferable and can only be used by the individual for whom it is issued.
- Travel beyond the 1,000-kilometer limit will be chargeable as per standard fare rates.
Similar Government Initiatives
Haryana is not the first state to introduce such a scheme. States like Delhi and Rajasthan also have travel schemes for specific groups, such as students, senior citizens, and women. However, the Haryana Happy Card Scheme stands out due to its targeted focus on low-income families.
