New Delhi: Indian Railways continues to strengthen its position as the country’s primary mode of affordable transport, carrying over 720 crore passengers annually while maintaining one of the lowest fare structures globally.
Major Push for Non-AC Coaches
To meet the needs of low and middle-income families, Railways currently operates approximately 57,200 non-AC coaches, accounting for nearly 70% of its total 82,200 coaches. In contrast, about 25,000 coaches are air-conditioned.
Seat distribution also highlights this emphasis. Around 54 lakh seats, or 78% of total seating capacity, are non-AC, while 15 lakh seats are AC. Over the next five years, Railways plans to manufacture 17,000 additional non-AC coaches to further strengthen affordable travel options.
In FY 2024-25 alone, 1,250 general coaches were deployed in long-distance trains. In the current financial year up to December 2025, 767 coaches have been permanently added to expand capacity.
Rising Passenger Numbers
Passenger growth has remained steady after the pandemic years. General and unreserved travel has seen significant increases, rising from 553 crore passengers in 2022-23 to 651 crore in 2024-25.
Railways has also maintained a standard composition of 12 general and sleeper non-AC coaches in a 22-coach Mail/Express train, compared to eight AC coaches, ensuring greater accommodation for non-AC travellers.
New Trains and Expanded Services
During 2025-26 (up to December 2025), Indian Railways introduced 245 new train services, extended 101 services and increased the frequency of eight trains. Additionally, around 65,000 special train trips were operated to handle festive and seasonal rush, including during Holi, Diwali, Durga Puja and other major occasions.
The number of special trains rose sharply from about 40,500 trips in 2023-24 to 85,400 in 2024-25, reflecting growing demand.
Modern Trainsets Across the Network
Indian Railways has expanded its fleet of modern trainsets. Currently, 164 Vande Bharat Chair Car services and two Vande Bharat Sleeper services are operational. The semi-high-speed trains have reported high occupancy levels across major routes.
For affordable long-distance travel, 54 Amrit Bharat Express services are running. These fully non-AC trains include general and sleeper coaches, pantry facilities and Divyangjan-friendly compartments.
Additionally, four Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services have been introduced to improve short-distance suburban and regional connectivity.
Among the Lowest Fares Globally
Indian Railways’ fare structure remains among the cheapest worldwide. The lowest ordinary class fare averages around ₹0.20 per passenger kilometre, significantly lower than neighbouring countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Even semi-high-speed Vande Bharat fares are substantially lower compared to China, Japan and France. The government has clarified that there is no plan to introduce dynamic pricing in Vande Bharat Chair Car or Sleeper services.
In 2023-24, Railways provided a subsidy of ₹60,466 crore on passenger tickets, effectively offering an average 45% concession. Suburban services and season tickets have seen no fare increase in the last decade.
Calibrated Fare Rationalisation
After a gap of five years, two minor fare rationalisations were implemented in 2025-26. The increases ranged from half a paisa to two paise per kilometre, depending on the class. Importantly, second-class ordinary fares up to certain distances remained unchanged.
According to the Minister, less than half of total journeys are expected to experience even marginal fare increases, ensuring affordability remains central to policy decisions.
With sustained infrastructure growth, expanded capacity and continued subsidies, Indian Railways remains committed to affordable and inclusive mobility for millions across the country.
