Senior Citizen Railway Concessions Update : Railway travel in India is an important means of transportation for people of all ages, but for senior citizens, it holds even greater significance. As people age, their need for comfort, safety, and convenience during travel increases. The Indian Railways has continuously introduced special facilities for senior citizens to make their journeys smoother and more comfortable. In 2025, the Railways announced two major new benefits for senior citizens that will directly benefit millions of elderly passengers across the country.
These initiatives are designed not only to make travel more comfortable for the elderly but also to provide them with financial and physical relief. Earlier, senior citizens used to get discounts on train tickets, but this facility was discontinued after the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the Railways is once again bringing relief to senior citizens. In this article, we will explain in detail the new facilities being introduced in 2025, their benefits, and how senior citizens can avail of them.
Lower Berth Quota: A Major Relief for Senior Citizens
The Indian Railways has strengthened the Lower Berth Quota facility for senior citizens. Now, in Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier coaches, elderly passengers will be given priority for lower berths. This facility applies to men aged 60 years and above and women aged 45 years and above.
Benefits of the Lower Berth Quota
- Comfortable Travel : Senior citizens won’t have to face difficulty climbing upper berths.
- Safety: Lower berths are safer, especially during night travel.
- Automatic Allotment : The system automatically allocates lower berths at the time of booking, if available.
-
Reserved Quota : A certain number of lower berths are reserved exclusively for senior citizens in every coach.
Who Can Avail of It
- Men aged 60 years or above
- Women aged 45 years or above
-
Pregnant women
How to Get the Lower Berth Quota
- Choose the “Senior Citizen” option while booking tickets.
- Provide a valid age proof such as Aadhaar card.
-
Priority is given to those traveling alone or with one relative.
Train Ticket Discount Returns
After COVID-19, the fare discount for senior citizens was discontinued. However, in 2025, the Railways plans to reintroduce this Train Ticket Discount facility. The discounts will vary depending on the travel class.
Proposed Discount Rates (2025)
| Class | Current Discount | Proposed Discount 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper | None | 30% |
| AC 3 Tier | None | 20% |
| AC 2 Tier | None | 15% |
| AC 1 Tier | None | 10% |
| General | None | 25% |
| Non-Peak Season | N/A | Extra 5% |
| Off-Season | N/A | Extra 10% |
Benefits of the Ticket Discount
- Financial Relief : Direct savings on travel expenses.
- More Travel Opportunities : Seniors can travel more frequently for family visits, pilgrimages, or leisure trips.
- Digital Ticketing : The facility will also be available for online ticket bookings.
-
Age Verification : Aadhaar card will be mandatory to avail of the discount.
Who Can Get the Discount
- Men aged 60 years or above
-
Women aged 58 years or above (proposed change)
Other Major Facilities for Senior Citizens
Wheelchair and Battery Car Facility
- Free wheelchair and battery-operated cart services are available at railway stations.
- Elderly or differently-abled passengers can easily move from one end of the station to another.
-
This facility is available at major stations and is being gradually extended to smaller ones.
Special Reservation Counters
- Separate booking counters have been set up for senior citizens, women, and differently-abled passengers.
-
These counters ensure shorter queues, faster service, and special attention.
Alternative Berth Allotment
- If any lower berth remains vacant after train departure, it can be allocated to a senior citizen upon request.
-
Passengers can contact the conductor or onboard staff for this facility.
How to Avail of Senior Citizen Railway Facilities
- Online Ticket Booking : While booking via IRCTC or the Railway app, select the Senior Citizen option.
- Age Proof : Provide Aadhaar or any valid ID proof during booking.
- At the Station : Contact the station master or help desk for wheelchair or battery car services.
-
On the Train : Speak with the conductor for lower berth or other onboard assistance.
New Railway Initiatives for 2025
- Digital Ease : The online process for discounts and bookings is being simplified for senior citizens.
- Help Desks : Dedicated Senior Citizen Help Desks will be launched at major railway stations.
-
Feedback System : Railways will introduce a feedback system to collect suggestions and improve facilities further.
Benefits of Railway Facilities for Senior Citizens
- Economic Savings : Ticket discounts make travel more affordable.
- Safety and Comfort : Lower berths, wheelchairs, and battery cars make the journey smoother.
- Respect and Priority : Special attention to senior citizens enhances their dignity and inclusion.
-
Health Benefits : Comfortable travel conditions positively affect the health and well-being of elderly passengers.
