Indian Railways has introduced a new and generous initiative aimed at supporting its senior citizen passengers. The ₹1 platform ticket scheme allows eligible senior citizens to purchase railway platform tickets for just ₹1. This move is designed to make travel more accessible for the elderly and ensure that age is no longer a barrier to accompanying loved ones to the station.
Let’s dive into how this new policy works, who can avail of it, and what this means for Indian Railways.
What is the ₹1 Platform Ticket Scheme?
The ₹1 platform ticket initiative is a pilot program introduced by Indian Railways to provide discounted platform tickets to senior citizens. Under this scheme, individuals aged 60 years and above can purchase platform tickets at a nominal price of ₹1 at select railway stations.
Key Objectives of the Scheme:
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Better Accessibility | Ensures easy access to railway platforms for elderly citizens |
| Low-Cost Travel | Provides an affordable way for seniors to visit or accompany loved ones to the station |
| Social Inclusion | Promotes inclusivity and support for senior citizens |
| Feasibility Testing | Examines the practicality of offering senior citizen-specific benefits |
Who Is Eligible for the ₹1 Ticket?
This scheme is exclusively available to senior citizens who meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 60 years or older |
| Proof of Age | Valid documents like Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Passport |
| Citizenship | Must be an Indian citizen |
| Location | Valid only at select railway stations under the pilot project |
How to Avail the ₹1 Platform Ticket?
Availing the ₹1 platform ticket is easy, and Indian Railways is offering both offline and online methods at selected stations.
Availing Process:
| Mode | Steps |
|---|---|
| Offline (Counter) | 1. Visit a participating station’s platform ticket counter. 2. Present age-proof documents. 3. Pay ₹1 and collect the platform ticket. |
| Online (Digital Kiosk) | 1. Visit a digital kiosk at select stations. 2. Scan your Aadhaar card. 3. Receive the ₹1 platform ticket instantly. |
Key Railway Stations Participating in the Scheme
This initiative is being rolled out as a pilot project at specific stations across the country. Here’s a list of participating stations:
| Zone | Station Name | Ticket Counter Available | Digital Kiosk Available | Contact for Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Railway | New Delhi | Yes | Yes | 139 |
| Southern Railway | Chennai Central | Yes | No | 044-25330714 |
| Eastern Railway | Howrah Junction | Yes | Yes | 033-26413660 |
| Western Railway | Mumbai Central | Yes | Yes | 022-23070550 |
| South Central Railway | Secunderabad | Yes | No | 040-27700868 |
| North Eastern Railway | Gorakhpur | Yes | No | 0551-2201790 |
| South Western Railway | Bengaluru City | Yes | Yes | 080-22155366 |
| East Coast Railway | Bhubaneswar | Yes | No | 0674-2534026 |
Other Railway Benefits for Senior Citizens
In addition to the ₹1 platform ticket, Indian Railways provides several other benefits to senior citizens to enhance their travel experience:
Ongoing Benefits:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Fare Concession | 50% off on sleeper and 2S class fares (for women 58+, men 60+) |
| Dedicated Lower Berths | Reserved lower berths for senior citizens |
| Wheelchair Assistance | Available at major stations for easier access |
| Priority Booking | Special booking facilities through PRS |
| Senior Citizen Quota | Quota available in long-distance trains |
Impact and Public Response
The public reaction to this initiative has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly among elderly citizens and their families.
Positive Outcomes Expected:
| Expected Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Platform Use | More seniors will be able to visit stations safely and comfortably |
| Public Perception | Indian Railways will be seen as more inclusive and senior-friendly |
| Reduced Fare Evasion | The scheme could reduce platform fare evasion |
| Better Engagement | Senior citizens will feel more connected to the transport network |
Future Plans and Expansion
If the pilot program proves successful, Indian Railways plans to expand the ₹1 platform ticket scheme to more stations across the country.
Expansion Strategy:
| Expansion Plan | Description |
|---|---|
| Nationwide Roll-out | Aimed by the end of 2025 |
| DigiLocker Integration | Integration with DigiLocker and UTS app for seamless access |
| Age Verification System | Automatic verification through smart kiosks for hassle-free ticketing |
Conclusion
The ₹1 platform ticket for senior citizens is a significant initiative by Indian Railways to make public transportation more accessible and affordable for elderly citizens. By reducing financial barriers, it ensures seniors can maintain social connections and travel without worry.
As this scheme continues to roll out, it may become a standard offering, reflecting a people-first approach to governance and transportation.
The scheme is currently in the pilot phase, and passengers are encouraged to check with their nearest railway station or visit the official Indian Railways website for updates.
FAQs
How can I avail of the ₹1 platform ticket?
Visit the platform ticket counter or use a digital kiosk at a participating station, present age-proof, and pay ₹1.
Are there any stations where this scheme is not available?
Yes, the ₹1 platform ticket is available only at select stations as part of the pilot phase.
Is the ₹1 ticket available for all senior citizens?
The offer is available for Indian citizens aged 60 and above with valid age proof.
Can I use the ₹1 ticket for any platform?
Yes, the ticket allows access to the general platforms at participating railway stations.
Will the scheme be expanded to other stations?
If successful, Indian Railways plans to expand the scheme nationwide by the end of 2025.