A major relief in railway ticket fares for senior citizens is expected before the Union Budget to be presented on February 1, 2026. The government is considering offering a 40% to 50% discount on tickets to senior citizens in key categories such as Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Mail/Express.
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Ahead of the Union Budget to be presented on February 1, 2026, hopes of significant relief in railway ticket fares for senior citizens have increased. According to reports and discussions, the government is considering offering substantial ticket discounts to senior citizens on major classes like Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Mail/Express. This move is believed to be a way to reinstate a facility discontinued after the COVID-19 pandemic, making travel affordable and convenient for senior passengers.
Pre-COVID-19 Discounts
Prior to COVID-19, Indian Railways offered discounts on ticket fares to senior citizens. Men (60+ years) received up to 40% and women (58+ years) received up to 50%. This facility was available in almost all coach classes and was automatically applied upon entering age at the time of ticket booking.
This facility was temporarily discontinued after the pandemic began in March 2020 and has not been reinstated. Elderly passengers and social groups say that it is very important to restart this discount amid rising fares.
Discussions Between Ministries
The Railway Ministry has submitted a proposal to the Finance Ministry to reinstate senior citizen discounts. Meetings between the two ministries have been held before the budget, but no official announcement has been made yet.
According to sources, the government is considering a 40% to 50% discount on Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Mail/Express classes. Furthermore, if this proposal is implemented, elderly passengers will receive direct relief on travel expenses and be able to travel more comfortably.
What are the future expectations?
Senior passengers say that after retirement, their income becomes limited and they rely on pensions or savings. In these times of rising fares, the reinstatement of discounted tickets will provide them financial relief and simplify travel.
All eyes are now on the budget to be presented in Parliament on February 1, 2026, to determine whether the government will implement this discount.
