Indian Railways has made a major announcement for senior citizens, in which they will be given a discount of up to 50% on the train ticket. This scheme is an attempt to make the journey cheaper and convenient for the elderly. In this article, we will discuss this scheme in detail, understand its benefits, eligibility and application process.
Overview of senior civilian ticket exemption scheme
| Name of the scheme | Senior Citizen Rail Fare Rebate Scheme |
| Date of implementation | 25 December 2024 |
| Beneficiary | 60+ year old men and 58+ year old women |
| Exemption percentage | 40%for men, 50%for women |
| Applicable categories | All categories (sleeper, AC, general) |
| Application process | Online or at railway counter |
| Required document | Aadhar card or other age proof |
| Special facilities | Priority booking, support services |
What is Senior Citizen Ticket Exemption Scheme?
The Railway Ministry has implemented a special discount scheme for senior citizens. Under this, elderly passengers are given huge discounts in fare on train tickets. This scheme is extremely beneficial for those who travel often and want to reduce their expenses.
How to make senior citizen cards?
Senior citizen card is very easy to get. You can get it done by going to the online or nearest service center at home.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant should be a permanent resident of India.
- The age of a male applicant should be at least 60 years.
- The age of female applicant should be at least 58 years.
- The applicant must have age and identity certificate.
Required documents
- Aadhar card
- PAN card
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Ration card or electricity bill (proof of address)
Online Application Process
- Go to the official website of the state government.
- Click on the ‘New Registration’ option.
- Fill the application form in which name, date of birth, address etc. give information.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit the application and note the application number.
Offline application process
- Visit the nearest Municipal Corporation Office or Tehsil Office.
- Get and fill the application form.
- Attach all the necessary documents.
- Submit the filled form and get the receipt.
Exemption on ticket booking
The exemption given by Indian Railways has been determined as follows:
- Male Senior Citizen: 40% discount in fares.
- Women’s Senior Citizen: 50% discount on fares.
This exemption applies to all types of trains like mail, express, capital, centenary etc. However, it is important to note that this exemption applies only to the base fair; Other charges like superfast not on charge or tax.
How to Book Senior Citizen Ticket (Ticket Booking Process)
1. Online Booking
You can easily book tickets online using IRCTC website or mobile app.
Stages of booking online tickets:
- Login on the IRCTC website or app.
- Enter your journey information like destination, date etc.
- Fill the passenger information and select the “Senior Citizen” option.
- Enter information about age and identity card.
- Pay and download the ticket.
2. Offline Booking
If you do not want to use online facility, then you can also book tickets from the nearest railway station counter.
Offline process:
- Go to the railway station.
- Fill the reservation form and tick the “Senior Citizen” option.
- Show identity card.
- Pay and get a ticket.
Important things that should be kept in mind
It is important to take care of some things while booking tickets so that you do not have any kind of trouble:
- Always enter the correct information. Your ticket may be canceled if given wrong information.
- If you are booking tickets online from IRCTC, then select the “Senior Citizen” option.
- Keep your identity card with you during the journey as TTE can check it.
Benefits of the scheme
This scheme has proved to be very beneficial for senior citizens as this reduces their travel expenses to a great extent.
key benefits:
- There is huge discount in rent.
- Easily available both online and offline.
- Senior citizens get additional convenience in the journey.
Some limitations:
- This discount only applies to the base fair.
- There is no exemption on other charges such as catering service or tax.
Disclaimer:
This article is written only for the purpose of providing information. However, no official announcement has been made about the scheme as to whether it will apply or apply or not. Please get complete information from the official website or railway counter so that there is no inconvenience.
