The Government of Maharashtra provides a 50% concession on Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC/ST) bus fares for women under the Mahila Sanman Scheme.

To make the concession system transparent, digital, and cashless, MSRTC has introduced the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) Smart Card. From 1 August 2026, women and other concession beneficiaries are required to use this card to continue availing concessional fares on eligible ST bus services.

This guide explains the complete application process—from eligibility to receiving your card.

Overview

Why Has MSRTC Introduced This Card?

The Smart Card has been introduced to:

• Digitize concession benefits
• Prevent misuse of travel concessions
• Enable cashless ticketing
• Speed up ticket issuance
• Maintain accurate concession records
• Ensure transparent reimbursement by the Government

Who Can Apply?

The NCMC Smart Card is available for several concession categories.

Eligibility for Women

A woman applicant should:

• Be eligible under MSRTC’s Mahila concession policy.
• Possess a valid Aadhaar Card.
• Apply through an authorised MSRTC registration centre.
• Complete identity verification.

Documents Required

Prepare the following:

Since the women’s card is Aadhaar-linked, the Aadhaar details are used during registration.

also read

official website MSRTC

Card Fee

Where to Apply?

Applications are accepted at:

• MSRTC Bus Depots
• ST Bus Stations
• Authorised NCMC Registration Centres
• Authorised Smart Card Agents

MSRTC has established more than 4,000 registration and distribution centres across Maharashtra.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Visit the Registration Centre

Go to your nearest:

• ST Depot
• MSRTC Bus Stand
• Authorised Smart Card Centre

Step 2: Carry Required Documents

Bring:

• Original Aadhaar Card
• Mobile Number
• Applicable documents (if any)

Step 3: Aadhaar Verification

The staff will:

• Verify your Aadhaar
• Confirm your identity
• Record your mobile number

Step 4: Fill the Registration Form

Provide:

• Name
• Date of Birth
• Gender
• Address
• Aadhaar Number
• Mobile Number

Verify all details before submission.

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee

Pay the prescribed fee (currently ₹199 for a new card).

Payment modes generally include:

• Cash
• UPI
• Digital Payment

(Availability may vary by centre.)

Step 6: Biometric/Photo Capture (if required)

Some centres may capture:

• Photograph
• Digital signature

depending on the registration setup.

Step 7: Acknowledgement Receipt

Collect the receipt safely.

It may be required when collecting your card.

Step 8: Card Processing

MSRTC verifies:

• Aadhaar
• Identity
• Eligibility

The card is then prepared.

Step 9: Card Collection

Once ready:

• Visit the centre with your acknowledgement.
• Collect your Smart Card.

MSRTC has indicated that cards are generally issued within about 30 days after registration.

How to Activate the Card

After receiving the card:

• Add the required wallet balance.
• Ensure the card is activated.
• Carry it during every ST journey.

Without activation, digital ticketing may not function correctly.

How to Recharge the Card

Recharge options include:

• ST Depot
• Authorised Agent
• ETIM Machines
• Mobile Application (where supported)
• Official Website (where supported)

How to Use the Card While Travelling

1. Board the ST Bus.
2. Inform the conductor that you are travelling using the concession.
3. Tap or present your NCMC Smart Card on the ticketing device.
4. The system verifies your eligibility.
5. The applicable 50% concession is applied and the ticket is issued.

Benefits of the Smart Card

• Faster ticket booking
• Digital concession verification
• Cashless travel support
• Reduced fraud
• Easier recharge
• Secure identity verification
• Can also support payments on compatible transport systems using the NCMC framework.

Important Points to Remember

• Keep your Aadhaar-linked mobile number active.
• Do not share your Smart Card with others.
• Carry the card during every journey.
• Keep sufficient wallet balance.
• Report a lost card immediately to the issuing authority.

If You Lose the Card

You should:

1. Visit the issuing registration centre.
2. Report the loss.
3. Submit identity proof.
4. Apply for a replacement card.
5. Pay the applicable replacement fee (if required).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Smart Card compulsory for women?

Yes. MSRTC has made the NCMC Smart Card mandatory for women availing the 50% fare concession from 1 August 2026. Without it, the full fare may be charged.

2. What is the application fee?

The current fee for a new Smart Card is ₹199.

3. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Yes. The women’s Smart Card is linked with Aadhaar for identity verification.

4. Can I apply online?

As of now, registration is primarily being conducted through MSRTC depots, bus stations, and authorised centres.

5. How many days does it take to receive the card?

The card is generally expected to be issued within 30 days after registration.

6. Can I recharge the card later?

Yes. The card wallet can be recharged using authorised recharge options supported by MSRTC.

Conclusion

The MSRTC NCMC Smart Card is an important step towards modernising public transport in Maharashtra. Women who regularly travel by ST buses should complete the registration process at the earliest to continue enjoying the 50% fare concession without interruption. Keeping your Aadhaar details updated, maintaining sufficient wallet balance, and carrying the card while travelling will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Note: Rules, fees, and operational procedures may be updated by MSRTC from time to time. Always verify the latest instructions at your nearest MSRTC depot or through official MSRTC communication before applying.