Making a huge relief for senior citizens, the Indian Railways has now revived a scheme granting senior citizens’ concession for train tickets. Female passengers above 58 years will enjoy a 50% discount, while male senior citizens above 60 years shall enjoy a 40% discount on the ticket fare. The decision will benefit millions of elderly passengers across India, making train journeys economically viable for them.
SENIOR CITIZEN CONCESSION: POINTS AT GLANCE.
- Eligibility Criteria:
Women aged 58 years and above: 50% discount
Men aged 60 years and above: 40% discount
- Applicable Classes: The concession is valid for Sleeper Class, AC 3-Tier, and AC Chair Car.
- Mode of Booking: Concession applies for online ticket booking through IRCTC and also for offline booking via railway reservation counters.
Why Was The Concession Withdrawn Earlier?
The senior citizen concession came to a halt in March, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Indian Railways were undergoing heavy losses because of lockdown and could not keep on loosening itself from its belt. After innumerable representations made by senior citizens and social organizations, now the Indian government has decided to return the concession, but in a phased manner.
How Can One Avail Of The Senior Citizen Discount?
1.Online Ticketing (for IRCTC Website/App):
- Sign in to IRCTC and enter passenger details.
- Select the “Senior Citizen Concession” option before making any payment.
- Discounted fare will be automatically applied.
2. Offline Ticketing (for Railway Counters):
- Carry one valid age confirming ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID).
- When preferring to book, demand senior citizen discount.
Are Any More Proposals For Further Benefits To The Senior Citizens?
The proposals seem to imply that concessions may extend to AC 2-tier and Executive Chair Cars in the future. Other proposals are also under consideration for Introducing Special Quotas and Dedicated Coaches for use by Senior Citizens traveling by Long Distance Trains.
Conclusion
Reviving the senior citizen concession is a heartily welcome measure by Indian Railways, making travel convenient for elderly passengers. With 50% for women and 40% for men, it will further facilitate millions of senior citizens traveling comfortably to any part of the country. More updates regarding railways concessions and travel-related benefits would be coming a few days ahead.
Also Read: Tatkal Ticket Booking Rules 2025: Now Only 4 Passengers Can Book Together