Train Fare Discount : Indian Railways has announced a significant change that will benefit thousands of senior citizens across the country. From June 1, 2025, the government is reinstating the much-awaited train fare concession for specific categories of senior citizens. This move comes after sustained demand from public representatives and welfare organizations, especially after the earlier suspension of concessions during the pandemic period.
Let’s understand who qualifies for the discount, how much concession will be offered, which classes are covered, and how to claim it.
Why Is This Train Fare Discount Being Reintroduced?
The Indian Railways had suspended all concessions in 2020 due to COVID-19. Since then, there have been repeated calls for reinstating fare discounts, especially for elderly passengers who often rely on trains for long-distance travel. Responding to the public demand and recent reviews, the Ministry of Railways has now decided to bring back a partial discount for senior citizens under certain conditions.
Who Is Eligible for the Senior Citizen Train Fare Discount?
The concession will be available only to the following categories of passengers:
- Male passengers aged 60 years and above
- Female passengers aged 58 years and above
- Applicable only to Indian citizens
- Valid for confirmed and reserved tickets only
- Passengers must carry age proof at the time of travel
This discount will apply only to general quota bookings made through official IRCTC channels or railway booking counters.
Key Details of the New Train Fare Concession Rule
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the new concession structure, eligibility, and class-wise details:
Concession Percentage Based on Age and Gender
| Category | Age Requirement | Discount Offered | Applicable Classes | ID Proof Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Male Citizen | 60 years & above | 40% | Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, Chair Car | Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc |
| Senior Female Citizen | 58 years & above | 50% | Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, Chair Car | Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc |
Note: No concession is applicable for First Class AC and Executive Class.
Train Classes Covered Under the New Scheme
| Train Class | Available Concession | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper Class | Yes | Most affordable and widely used class |
| AC 3-Tier (3AC) | Yes | Popular choice among senior citizens |
| AC 2-Tier (2AC) | Yes | Higher comfort level |
| AC Chair Car | Yes | Day travel segment |
| First Class AC | No | Concession not available |
| Executive Chair Car | No | Premium category, no discount |
How to Avail the Senior Citizen Discount
Booking a train ticket with this discount is simple and can be done through the following methods:
- Online Booking (IRCTC Website/App):
- Log in with your IRCTC account.
- Select passenger type as “Senior Citizen”.
- Enter accurate date of birth as per ID.
- The system will automatically apply the eligible discount.
- Offline Booking (Railway Reservation Counters):
- Fill the reservation form and tick “Senior Citizen”.
- Submit valid ID proof for age verification.
- The booking clerk will apply the concession at the counter.
Documents Required for Age Verification
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Driving License (if applicable)
Important Rules and Conditions to Note
Before availing the discount, senior citizens must keep in mind the following:
- Discount is applicable only on base fare. Other charges like GST, catering, reservation fees, etc., will be charged at full rate.
- The concession is available only at the time of booking. No refund will be processed if a concession is claimed after ticket purchase.
- Tatkal, Premium Tatkal, and Dynamic Fare tickets are not eligible for this discount.
- The passenger must carry valid photo ID showing date of birth during travel. Ticket checkers are authorized to verify the same.
Exclusions and Limitations of the Discount
| Condition | Is Discount Available? |
|---|---|
| Tatkal Tickets | No |
| Premium Trains like Vande Bharat | No |
| Unreserved Class | No |
| Group Booking (Bulk Tickets) | No |
| Foreign Nationals | No |
| Concession After Booking | No |
Why This Rule Matters for Senior Citizens
For many senior citizens, trains are the only affordable means of long-distance travel. The rising costs of private transport and flights make these concessions essential. Reintroducing the train fare discount not only reduces their financial burden but also recognizes their special needs.
Moreover, this initiative promotes inclusivity and respects the contribution of elderly citizens by making travel more accessible for them.
Starting June 1, 2025, senior citizens can once again benefit from the Indian Railways’ fare concessions. With clear eligibility, structured discounts, and simple booking procedures, this is a welcome relief for lakhs of elderly passengers. Those planning to travel in the coming months are advised to check their age eligibility, keep valid ID proofs ready, and follow the new rules to enjoy this beneficial scheme.