As Indian Railways has started advance ticket bookings for Christmas and New Year holidays, a large number of families are planning trips with their children to popular tourist destinations. With schools closed for winter vacations, train travel remains the most affordable and convenient option for parents.
However, before booking tickets, it is very important for parents to understand the child ticket rules clearly. Many people are still confused about whether a ticket is required for small children and when full fare is applicable.
Indian Railways Child Ticket Policy Explained
According to the official rules, children below five years of age are allowed to travel for free. However, the free travel rule comes with an important condition. If parents demand a separate seat or berth for the child, full adult fare must be paid even if the child is under five years old.
Therefore, parents must fully understand the child fare policy before finalising their journey plans.
Indian Railways Child Ticket Age Limit and Fare Rules
Here is a simple breakdown of Indian Railways child ticket rules based on age:
Children Below 5 Years
Children under five years can travel completely free of cost. No separate seat or berth is provided. If parents want a separate seat or berth for comfort, full adult fare will be charged.
Children Aged 5 to Below 12 Years
If no separate berth or seat is required, child fare is applicable.
If a separate seat or berth is required, full adult fare must be paid.
Children Aged 12 Years and Above
Children aged 12 years and above are treated as adults and must pay the full adult ticket fare without any exemption.
Official Railway Circular on Child Ticket Rules
As per the official circular issued by the Ministry of Railways on March 6, 2020, children below five years are allowed free travel only if they do not occupy a separate seat or berth. If parents voluntarily ask for a separate seat or berth, adult fare becomes mandatory.
IRCTC Child Ticket Booking Guidelines
While booking tickets through IRCTC, parents must ensure that the correct age of the child is entered. If a separate seat or berth is required, the child must be added as a full passenger during the booking process. Incorrect age details can lead to penalties during ticket checking.
Why Parents Should Follow Child Fare Rules Carefully
Many passengers face fines during travel because they assume that all children can travel for free. Railway ticket examiners strictly verify age at the time of journey. If a child is found occupying a seat without a proper ticket, a heavy penalty can be imposed along with recovery of full fare.
Conclusion
Indian Railways provides free travel to small children below five years of age, but only when no separate seat or berth is taken. As soon as a separate seat is required, full adult fare applies. For children between five and twelve years, both options are available based on seat requirement, while children above twelve must always pay full fare.
Before booking your holiday tickets, it is advised to carefully check the child’s age, seating needs, and fare rules to avoid last-minute issues and unnecessary penalties.
