The Hindu BureauNEW DELHI: Calling a bicycle not merely a means of transport, but a tool that will give new momentum to the confidence, independence and dreams of young students, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday said that the process of bicycle distribution to all girls taking admission in Class 9 in government schools will begin after the summer vacation. “Around 1.30 lakh girls enrol in Class 9 every year, and the bicycles will help them throughout their academic journey from Class 9 to college and coaching institutes. The education of daughters is not just important for families, but is the foundation of a brighter future for society and the nation,” Ms. Gupta said.She was speaking at an event to distribute bicycles to 500 meritorious girl students who had passed Classes 10 and 12 in the R. K. Puram Assembly constituency. The distribution was not connected to the free bicycle scheme announced by the government and was organised by the local MLA and a private organisation.Ms. Gupta said the Delhi Government is continuously working to provide greater opportunities, safety and facilities for girls in the field of education. “The government’s objective is to ensure that no daughter is forced to compromise on her studies or dreams because of a lack of resources,” the Chief Minister said.To curb school dropouts caused by long distances, the CM in her budget speech present in March this year announced ₹90 crore for the distribution of free bicycles to 1.3 lakh ninth-grade girls in government schools. Published - May 16, 2026 11:16 pm IST