Responding to a written question in the Lok Sabha, Railway Minister Ashwani Vaishnav said that the restrictions on concession in fares to senior citizens will continue for the time being. This decision has been taken given the low revenue generated by Indian railways. The exemption was withdrawn during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The decision will remain in force until further notice. Indian Railways gives concession in rail fares to many other categories of passengers including senior citizens. Currently, the railways are giving concessions in fares for three categories of passengers, including four types of Divyangjan, patients suffering from 11 types of diseases, and students.
Another former railway official who did not wish to be named said MoR could consider continuing with the concession in some classes, perhaps Third AC.
Shailesh Goyal, a former member of the National Railway Users Consultative Council said: “Senior citizens were waiting for their concession to restart for the last two years but they are dismayed with the ministry’s decision. Not all universities and colleges have re-opened completely. Hence, instead of reinstating students’ concessions, the ministry should recommence concessions for senior citizens.”
