New Delhi: Indian Railways’ new passenger fare structure came into effect from Friday. Sleeper and First Class (Ordinary, Non-Suburban) fares have been increased by only 1 paisa per kilometer. According to the Railway Ministry, this move has been taken to strike a balance between affordability for passengers and economic sustainability of railway operations.
Revisions Under the Graded Structure
Second Class, Sleeper Class, and First Class fares in Ordinary Non-AC (Non-Suburban) services have been revised in a phased manner.
Second Class Ordinary fares up to 215 km will remain unchanged to avoid burdening daily commuters.
₹5 increase for distances between 216–750 km
₹10 increase for distances between 751–1,250 km
₹15 increase for distances between 1,251–1,750 km
₹20 increase for distances between 1,751–2,250 km
Suburban services and all types of season tickets are untouched by this increase.
New fares for Mail/Express and AC classes
All non-AC and AC classes on Mail and Express trains—Sleeper, First Class, AC Chair Car, AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier, and AC First Class—have been rationalized by 2 paise per kilometer.
For example, a 500 km non-AC Mail or Express journey will now cost approximately ₹10 more.
Base fares for major trains, including Tejas Rajdhani, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Tejas, Mahamana, Gatiman, Antyodaya, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, have also been revised accordingly.
Other charges remain unchanged; new fares will not apply to old tickets
There is no change in reservation charges, superfast surcharges, or other charges. GST will remain applicable as before, and fares will be rounded off as before. The revised fares will apply only to tickets booked from December 26, 2025. No additional charges will be levied on previously issued tickets. According to the Railways, fare lists at stations will also be updated to reflect the new fares.