This is a massive relief to elderly superannuates because the concession for senior citizens was reintroduced by the Indian Railways under the new policy with effect from June 2025. The decision was taken in view of numerous demands from the public as well as various organizations for its restoration, especially after the COVID-induced suspension. The new scheme allows senior citizens to get up to 50 percent discount on ticket fare for certain classes and routes.
Who Is Covered?
The concession is allowed to:
- Men 60 years and above
- Women 58 years and above
While booking tickets either online or at the railway counters, valid age proof document needs to be shown. The discount shall apply automatically if genuine age details are entered.
Details On Discounts
The newly enacted policy specifies:
- 50% concession on basic fare for Sleeper Class and Second Class tickets
- 40% concession for AC Chair Car and AC 3-Tier
- No concession in First AC or Executive Classes
This attempt has been made to provide for the easy travel of the senior citizens keeping in view their financial security also toward railways.
How To Avail Concession:
1. Online Booking (IRCTC):
- Enter age and gender accurately.
- The system will automatically give the concession, if applicable.
- For age proof, a photocopy of any authorized ID card (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.) may be required during travel.
2. Offline Booking:
- The passenger may visit a railway ticket counter with a valid age proof.
- While making the booking, request the ticketing authority that the passenger is a senior citizen.
- The concession details will be printed on the ticket.
Highlights Of The Policy
- Such a concession is available only on the base fare and not on reservation, superfast, or catering charges.
- The concession is non-transferable and will only be valid for personal travel.
- Where such misuse is discovered, full fare shall be recovered and an additional fine imposed.
- Group bookings are allowed under the senior citizen quota on production of valid identity cards.
The Government’s Position
According to the statement of the Ministry of Railways, the decision was taken “to honor the contributions of the elderly and to provide affordable travel to India’s senior citizens.” The Ministry also said that consideration for differently-abled persons and widows of armed forces personnel may be given for inclusion under these concessions.