Free Travel Scheme – The Indian government has officially launched a groundbreaking national travel scheme from 15 July 2025, allowing senior citizens to travel absolutely free across trains, buses, and even domestic flights. This landmark initiative, aimed at honoring the contributions of the elderly population, is set to benefit millions of senior citizens across the country with stress-free, budget-friendly mobility. The scheme is being hailed as one of the most inclusive welfare steps ever implemented under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with Indian Railways, major airlines, and state-run road transport corporations.
What is the Free Travel Scheme for Seniors?
The “Senior Citizen Free Travel Scheme 2025” has been designed to offer 100% subsidized travel for citizens aged 60 and above. The benefits are valid across three major modes of public transport — trains, buses, and flights. The scheme has come into force nationwide from 15 July 2025 and applies to both government and private transport carriers that are participating in the program under official partnership.
Key Highlights:
- Scheme Name: Senior Citizen Free Travel Scheme 2025
- Launch Date: 15 July 2025
- Eligibility: Indian citizens aged 60 years and above
- Modes Covered: Trains (AC & Sleeper), State Buses, Domestic Flights
- Document Requirement: Aadhaar Card, Age Proof
- Booking Method: Online & Offline at counters
- Validity: Lifetime benefit for eligible seniors
- Available In: All states and union territories
Eligibility Criteria for Free Travel
To avail of the scheme, senior citizens must meet the following requirements:
- Must be 60 years or older as of the travel date
- Must possess a valid Aadhaar Card and proof of age
- Should be a permanent resident of India
- Can apply either online through IRCTC, airline websites, or bus portals, or visit nearby counters
- Must not already be availing a similar central government travel benefit
Benefits Across All Major Transport Modes
This new scheme is revolutionary in its scope, covering all major transport options across the country.
1. Indian Railways:
- Free travel in all AC and Sleeper classes
- Priority booking windows at counters
- Separate queues for senior citizens at stations
2. State Transport Buses:
- Free travel in intercity and local buses
- Reserved seats for elderly passengers
- Extended support for rural areas and villages
3. Domestic Flights:
- Free tickets on economy class flights
- Applicable on government and selected private carriers
- Online booking with Aadhaar-linked verification
List of Participating States and Carriers
The scheme has already been adopted by central and state bodies along with leading transport partners.
| Mode | Service Provider | Participation Status |
|---|---|---|
| Railways | Indian Railways (IRCTC) | Fully Enrolled |
| Airlines | Air India | Yes |
| Airlines | Indigo, SpiceJet, Vistara | Selected Routes |
| State Buses | Delhi Transport Corporation | Yes |
| State Buses | Maharashtra ST | Yes |
| State Buses | Karnataka KSRTC | Yes |
| State Buses | Tamil Nadu SETC | Yes |
| State Buses | Uttar Pradesh UPSRTC | Yes |
How to Book Free Travel Tickets
Booking tickets under the Senior Citizen Travel Scheme 2025 has been made simple and accessible for elderly users.
For Train Travel:
- Visit the IRCTC website
- Choose “Senior Citizen Free Travel” option
- Enter Aadhaar number and DOB for verification
- Select travel class and destination
- Print or download the free e-ticket
For Bus Travel:
- Visit state bus terminal or book via app/website
- Carry Aadhaar card for verification
- Choose the “Senior Travel Pass” option
- Get a paper ticket or m-ticket
For Flights:
- Visit airline website or contact airport counter
- Choose the senior citizen option during booking
- Submit Aadhaar details online or at check-in
- Receive a 100% discount confirmation on selected routes
Estimated Annual Benefit Value for Seniors
This scheme not only saves money for the elderly but also encourages mobility, tourism, and independence.
| Mode of Transport | Average Yearly Savings (INR) | Frequency of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Trains (AC Class) | ₹18,000 – ₹24,000 | 6–8 trips/year |
| State Buses | ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 | 10–15 trips/year |
| Domestic Flights | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 | 4–6 flights/year |
| Total Benefit | ₹54,000 – ₹83,000 | All modes |
Govt’s Vision Behind the Initiative
The Senior Citizen Free Travel Scheme is part of the government’s broader plan to improve the dignity, social inclusion, and mobility of the elderly. This initiative aligns with the goals of the National Policy for Senior Citizens and is expected to benefit over 7 crore elderly citizens.
Additional plans under consideration include:
- Free medical travel for treatment
- Special tourism circuits for senior citizens
- Companion passes for differently-abled elderly
This scheme is a milestone in India’s social welfare journey, enabling the elderly to travel freely, independently, and without financial burden. By offering cost-free access to transportation, the government is not just recognizing the senior population but also giving them the freedom to reconnect with family, explore new places, and attend to medical needs with ease. Citizens are encouraged to spread awareness about the scheme so that every eligible senior in their family and community can benefit from this once-in-a-generation initiative.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the Free Travel Scheme 2025?
All Indian citizens aged 60 years or above with valid Aadhaar and proof of age are eligible.
2. Is the scheme available across all Indian states?
Yes, the scheme is implemented nationwide and supported by both central and state transport departments.
3. Can a senior citizen book tickets online under this scheme?
Yes, bookings can be made via IRCTC, airline websites, and state bus portals by choosing the senior citizen option.
4. Does the scheme cover all train and flight classes?
The scheme covers all AC and sleeper classes in trains and economy class in flights. Business class is excluded.
5. Are there any income restrictions for eligibility?
No, the scheme is universally applicable to all senior citizens regardless of income level.