By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi 

New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday launched the ‘Vidya Vahini’ scheme, an initiative aimed at improving access to education for girl students, by distributing free bicycles to over 3,000 Class IX students at the Sports Complex in East Vinod Nagar.

Under the programme, nearly 1.4 lakh girl students studying in Delhi Government schools will receive free bicycles in a phased rollout, with the government stating that the initiative will continue in the coming years.

Launching the scheme, C M Rekha Gupta described Vidya Vahini as “a celebration of our collective commitment to empowering every daughter.” She said a bicycle was “not just a means of transport, but a symbol of freedom, dignity and self-reliance,” adding that easier access to schools would improve attendance, reduce dropout rates and ease the concerns of parents.

The Chief Minister interacted with students during the event, encouraging them to pursue their education with confidence and discipline while emphasising road safety and responsible use of the bicycles.

Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood said the initiative reflects the government’s focus on girls’ education and empowerment, describing education, safety and opportunity for young women as among its highest priorities. He said the scheme addresses transportation challenges that often discourage girls from continuing their studies after Class IX.

The launch event was attended by Union Minister of State and Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra, Patparganj MLA Ravinder Singh Negi, Director of Education and Sports Nitin Jindal, along with teachers, parents and hundreds of students.

The Delhi Government said the initiative is expected to make school travel safer and more convenient, while promoting greater educational participation among girls across the national capital.