Indian Railways offers special concessions and quotas for senior citizens, making train travel more accessible and affordable. Senior citizens (men 65+, women 60+) receive fare concessions of 25% (men) and 50% (women) on base fare. Additionally, there is a dedicated lower berth quota and special provisions in ticket booking. According to IRCTC, over 1.2 crore senior citizen concession tickets are issued annually. This guide covers all the rules, quotas and booking procedures for 2026.
Table of Contents
- Senior Citizen Concession
- Lower Berth Quota
- How to Book
- Concession Comparison
- Rules & Restrictions
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Senior Citizen Concession
Men aged 65+ get 25% off base fare. Women aged 60+ get 50% off base fare. Concession applies to 1A, 2A, 3A, SL, 2S and CC classes. No concession on Tatkal tickets. Concession is automatically applied when you select 'Senior Citizen' in IRCTC booking.
Lower Berth Quota
Each train has 2 lower berths per coach reserved for senior citizens, pregnant women, and disabled passengers. This quota is separate from the general quota and can be booked when available. If the senior citizen quota is full, regular booking with concession applies.
How to Book Senior Citizen Tickets
1. Log into IRCTC. 2. Add passenger details with correct DOB. 3. Select 'Senior Citizen' option. 4. Concession auto-applied. 5. For lower berth quota, select 'Lower Berth/Sr. Citizen' quota. 6. Carry valid ID proof during travel.
Concession Comparison Table
| Class | Base Fare | Men (25%) | Women (50%) | Savings (Women) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | ₹3,000 | ₹2,250 | ₹1,500 | ₹1,500 |
| 2A | ₹1,500 | ₹1,125 | ₹750 | ₹750 |
| 3A | ₹1,000 | ₹750 | ₹500 | ₹500 |
| SL | ₹500 | ₹375 | ₹250 | ₹250 |
Rules & Restrictions
Concession does not apply to Tatkal tickets. You must carry original ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID showing DOB). The concession applies only to the base fare, not surcharges. No age verification at booking — but checked during travel.
Conclusion
Senior citizen concessions make rail travel affordable for elderly passengers. Book through IRCTC with the Senior Citizen option and try the lower berth quota for guaranteed comfortable seating.
You May Also Like: Indian Railways 2026, National Highways, and Namo Bharat RRTS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior citizen concession?
Men 65+: 25%. Women 60+: 50% on base fare. No concession on Tatkal.
How to book senior citizen tickets?
Select 'Senior Citizen' in IRCTC with correct DOB. Concession auto-applied.
Is there a separate quota?
Yes, 2 lower berths per coach for senior citizens, pregnant women and disabled.
What ID proof is needed?
Aadhaar, Voter ID or any government ID showing date of birth. Carry original.
Can senior citizens get Tatkal concession?
No, Tatkal tickets have no senior citizen concession.
What is the lower berth quota?
2 lower berths per coach reserved for senior citizens and disabled passengers.