Indian Railways has introduced a significant change in the rules for booking children's tickets, bringing relief to passengers. According to the new norm, children under the age of 5 can now travel on trains without a ticket.
However, if a separate berth or seat is required for them, the full fare equivalent to an adult passenger must be paid. This decision will benefit parents traveling with their small children on their lap.
The Railways further clarified that for children aged 5 to 12, half the fare will be charged if no separate seat is opted for, but the full fare will apply if a seat is requested. All children above 12 years will be treated as adults. It is now mandatory to provide the correct age of the child during ticket booking and to carry age proof (like an Aadhaar card or birth certificate) during the journey.