The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has made the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) mandatory for passengers eligible for concessional bus fares across the state. The move aims to digitise and streamline the subsidy system while improving transparency and efficiency in fare collection.
Under the new rule, categories such as students, senior citizens, women, persons with disabilities (Divyang), freedom fighters, accredited journalists and state awardees must use the NCMC to avail subsidised travel benefits on MSRTC buses. The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s “One Nation, One Card” vision, promoting cashless and seamless mobility across different transport systems.
To ensure smooth implementation, MSRTC will conduct registration drives at bus depots across urban and rural regions. The card will be linked to official identification credentials, students’ Saral numbers, Aadhaar for senior citizens and women and UDID cards for Divyang passengers, to ensure accurate verification and prevent misuse of concessions.
The NCMC will be available at a nominal cost, with provisions for reduced charges for those replacing older smart cards. A minimum balance will be required for usage and passengers can recharge the card through mobile applications, online platforms, depot kiosks and authorised agents. Special arrangements are being made to assist senior citizens and other vulnerable groups with the transition.
By mandating the NCMC, MSRTC aims to modernise public transport payments and enhance accountability in subsidy distribution across Maharashtra.
