A big gift from Indian Railways for the senior citizens of the country. Starting from February 15, women passengers aged 58 years or above will receive a 50% discount on train tickets.
Male passengers aged 60 years or above will get a 40% discount on tickets.
Indian Railways' Major Initiative
To make rail services more accessible to senior citizens, Indian Railways has taken this decision. This discount will be applicable only to Indian citizens. However, the discount will not apply to Tatkal tickets. Those who wish to book tickets online will need to log in to the IRCTC app and select the 'Senior Citizen Concession' option.
To avail the discount on ticket prices, age proof documents must be uploaded. Finally, after paying the ticket price online, the train ticket will be booked. Alongside online booking, offline tickets can also be booked at station counters with valid documents such as Aadhaar cards or voter IDs.
Senior citizens will receive this discount benefit on trains like Mail, Express, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto Express. According to railway sources, Indian Railways is considering offering discounts to senior citizens on premium train tickets such as Vande Bharat and Tejas in the near future. Additionally, the railways may also introduce affordable travel insurance in the coming days.
Indian Railways has already taken several positive steps for senior citizens. Seats are reserved on a priority basis in general compartments for senior passengers. Moreover, major stations are equipped with wheelchairs for elderly passengers. Additionally, lower berths are arranged in sleeper and AC compartments for senior travelers.