Rakhi is a very big occasion in India and it is not confined to only private family events but has become a trendsetter now by abhorring the fact that this is one occasion where many public events are organized by the government, schools, institutions, NGOs, and other such organizations to foster a spirit of brotherhood, unity and a sense of responsibility amongst all citizens of the country. One such event took place when women enjoyed free travel in non-AC buses in Delhi On Raksha Bandhan. Sheila Dixit greeted people on this occasion and announced that women will be given free bus rides in Non AC buses of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) so that they can easily reach their brothers on that day. DTC had been instructed to ensure free rides for women passengers.
Ramakant Goswami, the then transport minister, arranged for women to travel free of cost from 8 AM to 5 PM. However free travel was not allowed on AC buses. Goswami also allowed free travel in cluster bus service being run by DTC in collaboration with private entities. Free travel for women was also allowed through DTC buses to neighboring towns.