Senior citizens in India have received great news regarding train travel. The Indian Railways continues to offer fare concessions for elderly passengers, making long-distance journeys more affordable and comfortable. With rising travel expenses, the discount on train fares provides major financial relief to older citizens who frequently travel for medical needs, family visits, or personal reasons.
What Discount Do Senior Citizens Get on Train Fares?
Indian Railways offers a 30% discount on the basic fare for senior citizens.
Men aged 60 years and above and women aged 58 years and above are eligible for this concession. The discount applies to the base fare of Mail and Express trains, which means senior travellers can save a significant amount on every ticket booked.
Who Is Eligible for the Discount?
To avail the concession, men must be 60 years or older, and women must be 58 years or older at the time of travel. Passengers must provide valid age proof such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID during booking and while travelling. The concession is available for reserved classes including Sleeper, Third AC, and Second AC, depending on railways’ applicable rules.
How to Claim the Senior Citizen Discount
The process of availing the discount is simple and applies to both offline and online bookings.
At the railway counter, passengers should mention they want the senior citizen concession while booking the ticket.
On the IRCTC website or app, users can tick the “Senior Citizen Concession” option during the booking process.
Once verified, the system automatically applies the reduced fare, and the passenger can complete payment at the discounted rate.
Important Rules to Know
The discount applies only to the basic fare and does not include service charges, reservation fees, or taxes.
Some premium trains or special tourist trains may not provide the concession.
Railway staff may request age verification at any point during the journey, so carrying ID proof is mandatory for all senior passengers.
Why This Discount Matters
With rising travel costs, senior citizens often find train journeys expensive. This discount helps them travel without financial strain and encourages regular mobility for essential needs like medical visits and family trips. It reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to supporting elderly passengers and ensuring travel comfort for all age groups.
Tips for Senior Citizens to Save More on Travel
Book tickets early to secure preferred seats and avoid last-minute congestion.
Choose non-peak days or less crowded trains for smoother travel.
Use IRCTC’s digital features like the app and website to compare fares and check availability easily.
Conclusion: The senior citizen fare concession is a valuable benefit that provides affordability and convenience to millions of elderly travellers across India. With a 30% discount on basic train fares, senior citizens can enjoy safe, comfortable, and budget-friendly journeys in 2025. Make sure to use this benefit while booking your next trip and always carry valid ID proof for smooth travel.
Disclaimer: Information provided in this article is based on currently available Railway guidelines. Concession rules may be updated by Indian Railways at any time. Travellers should verify the latest details from IRCTC or their nearest railway enquiry office before booking.
