Indian Railways has announced a new policy for senior citizens, which has surprised everyone. Under this new policy, senior citizens will get a discount of up to 50% on train tickets. This step is a big relief for those who want to travel in their old age but could not do so due to expensive fares.

This new policy will not only help senior citizens financially, but will also provide them an opportunity to meet their loved ones and visit new places. In this article, we will give detailed information about this new policy, including eligibility criteria, exemption limit, and ways to take advantage of it.

Name of Scheme Senior Citizen Train Ticket Exemption
Exemption percentage up to 50%

Eligibility Age (Men) 60 years and above
Eligibility Age (Women) 58 years and above
Applied categories all categories (Sleeper, AC, General)
Application process online or at railway ticket counter

*Necessary Documents: Age Certificate, ID Card **

*Applicable date: With immediate effect **

Under this new policy, some changes have been made in the definition of senior citizen. Now the eligibility age for men is 60 years, while it is 58 years for women. This change ensures that more and more people can take advantage of this scheme.

Accepted document for age proof

Aadhar card
PAN card
Passport
Driving license
Voter ID Card
Pension passbook

Make sure that you place one of these documents with you when you book a ticket or travel.

*Category-wise discount details **

Sleeper class: 50% discount
AC 3-tier: 40% discount
AC 2-tier: 35% discount
AC first class: 30% discount
General and Second Sitting: 45% discount

This discount is applied to all types of trains, including mail/express, capital, shatabdi, and other special trains.

*Ticket booking process **

Senior citizens can avail this exemption in two ways:

Online Booking: Through IRCTC’s official website or mobile app

Railway Ticket Counter: From ticket counter located at any railway station

*Stages of online booking **

Log in on IRCTC website
Enter your travel details
Choose “Senior Citizen” option while filling passenger details
Confirm your age and gender
Pay and get your e-ticket

*Free features for Senior Citizens! Learn what benefits will be available **

*Benefits and Facilities **

Economic relief: Up to 50% discount makes the journey more economical for senior citizens.

Better facilities: With discounts, senior citizens can travel in better categories.

Priority Allocation: Senior citizens are given priority in lower birth allocation.

Wheelchair facility: Wheelchair facility is available at stations if required.

Medical Assistance: Medical assistance is available in the train in emergency.

*Important things to keep in mind **

Valid age proof is mandatory for availing exemption.
This exemption is available only to Indian citizens.
It is necessary to show age proof during the ticket check.
The discount does not apply to Tatkal tickets.
Other passengers traveling with a senior citizen will not get exemption.

*Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) **

*Does this discount apply to all trains? **

Yes, this discount applies to almost all trains, but some special trains such as facilities cannot be applied to train or holiday specials.

*Do I have to apply for every trip? **

No, once you update your profile on IRCTC, you can automatically avail discounts every time.

*Can I book a missing ticket for someone else? **

Yes, you can book a relaxed ticket for another senior citizen, but they should have valid age proof during the journey.

*Is there any restriction on refund? **

No, the refund rules on exempted tickets are the same as normal tickets.

*Can foreign senior citizens avail this exemption? **

No, this discount is available only to Indian citizens.

future prospects*

After the successful implementation of this new policy, there are more chances of further improvement in the future:

Digital Identification: Aadhaar-linked digital identity exemption process can be even more simple.

Smart Card: Special smart cards for senior citizens that will integrate all travel benefits.

Mobile App: A dedicated mobile app that will make the visit of senior citizens more convenient.

International Cooperation: In future, this exemption may also apply to international travel. **Indian Railways
*Senior Citizen Ticket Discount- Senior citizens pay attention, discount on train ticket 50%, new policy surprised everyone ***

*January 17, 2025 **

Indian Railways has announced a new policy for senior citizens, which has surprised everyone. Under this new policy, senior citizens will get a discount of up to 50% on train tickets. This step is a big relief for those who want to travel in their old age but could not do so.