IRCTC shares in focus as Indian Railways to hike passenger fares from July 1
will be in focus on Wednesday as Indian Railways is expected to hike passenger fares for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. The fare revision, likely to take effect from July 1, 2025, will see non-AC Mail/Express train fares increase by 1 paise per kilometre, while AC class fares will rise by 2 paise per kilometre, sources told The Economic Times.
Notably, there will be no increase in fares for suburban tickets and second-class travel up to 500 kilometres. For distances beyond 500 kilometres, the hike will be half a paise per kilometre. Additionally, there will be no change in monthly season ticket fares.
Also Read:
Coforge among 10 high-conviction stock ideas post Q4FY25 results that can rally up to 52%
Indian Railways Fare Hike
: Check Revised Ticket Price
Here are the revised fares that will come into effect on July 1:
- There will be no increase in suburban fares.
Live Events
- Monthly season ticket prices will remain unchanged.
- In the ordinary second class, there will be no fare hike for distances up to 500 km.
- For distances beyond 500 km in ordinary second class, the fare will increase by half a paise per kilometre.
- In Mail and Express (Non-AC) trains, the fare will increase by 1 paise per kilometre.
- In AC classes, the fare will go up by 2 paise per kilometre.
Earlier this month, Indian Railways made a significant announcement requiring
Aadhaar authentication
for Tatkal train ticket bookings starting July 1, 2025. Through a directive issued on June 10, 2025, the Railway Ministry informed all railway zones that this new requirement is intended "to ensure that the benefits of the Tatkal Scheme are received by the common end users."
The Railways' official notice stated that "With effect from 01-07-2025, tickets under the Tatkal scheme can be booked through the website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/ its app only by Aadhaar-authenticated users."
The ministry has also announced that beginning July 15, 2025, travellers will be required to complete an additional step of Aadhaar-based OTP authentication while booking Tatkal tickets.
The new guidelines establish limitations on Tatkal ticket reservations for authorised booking agents of Indian Railways.
These representatives are now barred from booking first-day Tatkal tickets within the initial half-hour window. The restriction is effective from 10:00 am to 10:30 am for AC class bookings and from 11:00 am to 11:30 am for non-AC class bookings.
The Railway Ministry has directed both the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC to make the necessary system modifications and communicate these changes to all zonal railway divisions. This initiative seeks to streamline the Tatkal reservation process for travellers.
Also Read:
11 Nifty mid & smallcap stocks that can rally 40-90% over the next 12 months
(
Disclaimer
: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of Economic Times)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
an hour ago
- Hans India
How digital skills are powering careers in railways
The Indian Railway sector is no longer just about trains and tracks; it's also about leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability. With technology playing a bigger role in railway operations, job seekers in the Indian railway sector can no longer rely solely on traditional skills. Instead, they must embrace new technologies and skills to meet the sector's growing demands for efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Indian Railways, one of the world's largest rail networks, is investing heavily in technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), predictive maintenance, and real-time tracking. Here's an in-depth look at the critical skills and technologies that can make a candidate highly employable in this sector: AI and ML-Wave of Intelligent Rail Operations AI and ML are at the forefront of innovation in the railway sector. Indian Railways uses these technologies for predictive maintenance, optimised scheduling, and enhanced passenger experience. A candidate equipped with knowledge in AI and ML can work on: • Predictive Maintenance: AI algorithms analyze data from sensors installed on tracks and trains to predict maintenance needs. Understanding how to handle and interpret sensor data can help candidates contribute to reduced downtime and improved train safety • Scheduling and Demand Analysis: Skills in ML algorithms that optimise schedules based on factors like weather, passenger demand, and historical data can enable better resource allocation and improve punctuality • Data Protection for AI Applications: As these systems rely heavily on data, knowledge of data privacy regulations, encryption techniques, and data anonymization is essential to ensure passenger and operational data is securely handled, especially in light of cybersecurity risks IoT and Real-Time Railway Monitoring IoT has transformed how railway systems operate. Indian Railways is implementing IoT devices for real-time train tracking, live monitoring, and SMART coaches. Proficiency in IoT technology offers various opportunities: • Real-Time Train Tracking: Familiarity with IoT devices and satellite navigation systems (such as those developed in collaboration with ISRO) allows candidates to assist in live tracking projects, improving both passenger experience and operational transparency • Remote Monitoring of Train Health: IoT sensors collect data on train health and detect issues like wheel or track defects. A background in IoT device programming and data analytics is invaluable for candidates aiming to enhance safety and efficiency • Security in IoT Ecosystems: Given the connectivity of these devices, understanding cybersecurity protocols for IoT networks is essential. Skills in securing device data, encrypting communications, and ensuring device authentication can make a candidate stand out Decoding Data for Efficiency The railway sector generates vast amounts of data, from passenger volumes to train performance metrics. Data analytics enables Indian Railways to optimize various aspects of its operations. Skills in this area include: • Predictive Data Analysis: Professionals who can analyze historical data and forecast demand trends help railway management allocate resources more effectively. Knowledge in statistical analysis, data mining, and tools like Python, R, and SQL can be advantageous • Data Visualization Tools: To communicate insights effectively, familiarity with tools like Tableau and Power BI is essential. Data visualizations support operational decisions, such as identifying high-traffic routes and peak travel times • Data Privacy and Protection: With increased data usage, candidates must also be aware of privacy policies and ethical practices surrounding data usage. Ensuring compliance with data protection laws such as the Personal Data Protection Bill is crucial in handling passenger information Cybersecurity Skills for a Connected Rail System The more connected the railway infrastructure becomes, the more vulnerable it is to cyber threats. Understanding cybersecurity principles is critical for anyone working in railway technology. Key skills include: • Risk Assessment: Candidates should be able to identify potential risks associated with various technologies, from IoT devices to AI algorithms. This requires a grasp of threat modeling and understanding common vulnerabilities in railway systems • Network Security for Rail Systems: Familiarity with firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure network architectures can help candidates protect the railway's digital infrastructure from cyberattacks Robotics and Automation in Railway Operations Automation plays a significant role in Indian Railways' modernization efforts, from automating maintenance tasks to introducing robotics for infrastructure inspection. Relevant skills in this field include: • Programming for Automation: Knowledge of programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ can help automate repetitive tasks, which is essential for SMART coaches and track maintenance systems • Robotics for Infrastructure Management: Candidates with skills in robotics can work on projects that use robots for inspecting tracks and bridges, reducing the need for manual inspections and improving safety Future-Ready Skills for Indian Railways For candidates looking to enhance their employability in the Indian railway sector, mastering these modern technologies and skills can be a significant advantage. In an industry as vast and dynamic as Indian Railways, those who can blend technical expertise with data protection skills will not only help transform railway operations but will also contribute to a more secure, efficient, and passenger-focused railway system. Embracing these skills allows professionals to play a critical role in shaping the future of rail transportation in India.
Mint
an hour ago
- Mint
NDBs mandate needs renewal with focus on agility, efficiency: FM Sitharaman
New Delhi, Jul 5 (PTI) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for a renewed mandate for the New Development Bank (NDB), emphasising the need for greater agility, technological advancement, and efficiency in today's fast-changing world. Observing that NDB has played an important role in reshaping the financial landscape for the global South, she said it has approved more than 100 projects and it has approved more than USD 35 billion in financing across member countries, including key Indian initiatives, like the metro rail, renewable energy and water management. NDB is not just a source of capital, it is a platform for shaping a more equitable and responsive global financial architecture, she said during the NDB Governors Seminar on the theme 'Challenges for Financing Sustainable Development for the Global South' in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Friday. "In today's fast-changing world, its mandate must be renewed. The NDB's mandate must be renewed with a focus on greater agility, technological advancement, and efficiency in an enhanced way. So, in conclusion, I would like to say financing sustainable development in the global South isn't just about raising funds. "It's about building fairness. It's about building trust, and it is about building leadership. India, with its dual role as a leading emerging economy and a global influencer, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation, not just for itself, but for all those who share its aspirations," she said. Sitharaman underlined the need for decisive collective action by the global South to address multiple uncertainties arising from fiscal constraints, climate change, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. Sitharaman highlighted that this deters long-term investment and delays critical progress in areas like renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure. Stressing that India stands at a unique crossroads, she said, "The aspirations of a billion people converge with the imperatives of a fast-changing planet. And in this moment, policy will determine the pace. India has demonstrated how scale and speed can go hand-in-hand." Through transformative policy initiatives like UPI, Aadhaar and Jan Dhan, India has driven financial inclusion even to the last mile, she said. India's policy ecosystem has been further strengthened by programmes, such as the Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the installation of over 220 GW of renewable energy capacity to accelerate clean energy transition, she said, adding that these efforts are complemented by a commitment to macroeconomic stability. "As we strive towards the 2030 agenda, the financing gap for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in developing countries has widened to over USD 4.2 trillion annually post-pandemic, reflecting the widening gap between ambition and reality," she said. She exuded confidence that India will remain one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world on the back of the country's resilience and robust recovery in the post-pandemic era.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
IRCTC offers 17-day train trip to over 30 places associated with Lord Rama starting at Rs 1.17 lakh
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Capitalising on the popularity of Ayodhya 's Ram temple , the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation is conducting its 5th special Ramayana train tour since its inception on January 22 last year by Prime Minister Narendra tour, " Shri Ramayana Yatra " will start from July 25, 2025 and will cover over 30 destinations associated with Lord Ram starting from Ayodhya and going to Nandigram, Sitamarhi, Janakpur, Buxar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, Nashik, Hampi and finally Rameshwaram island in South India before returning to Delhi. IRCTC officials said that since the inauguration of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, the religious and cultural tourism has got a huge boost as devotees from different walks of life are visiting these places with a lot of interest."Since the inauguration, this is the 5th Ramayan tour which we are holding and all our previous tours received encouraging response from the travellers and pilgrims," an IRCTC official tour will cost Rs 1,17,975 per person for 3 AC, Rs 1,40,120 per person for 2 AC and Rs 1,66,380 for 1 AC class cabin and Rs 1,79,515 for 1 AC to IRCTC, package price is inclusive of train journey in respective classes, accommodation in 3 star category hotels for 1 AC, 2 AC and 3 AC, all meals (vegetarian only), all transfers and sight-seeing in AC Coaches, travel insurance and services of IRCTC Tour Managers to a press note recently issued by the IRCRC, the tour will start from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station on July 25 and will be operated in Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC tourist train having modern amenities."The State of Art Deluxe AC Tourist Train has a host of amazing features including two restaurants, a modern kitchen, shower cubicles in coaches, sensor-based washroom functions, foot massager," the press note added, "The fully air-conditioned train provides three types of accommodation viz. 1st AC, 2nd AC and 3rd AC. The train has enhanced security features of CCTV cameras and Security Guards for each coach."Detailing about the tour itinerary, he said that it completed in 17 days and the first destination is Ayodhya where tourists will visit Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, Hanuman Garhi and Ram Ki Paidi (Saryu ghat)."Bharat Mandir at Nandigram follows next. The subsequent destination is Sitamarhi in Bihar where tourists shall be visiting Sita Ji's birth place and Ram Janki Temple in Janakpur (Nepal) which will be covered by road," the official added, "Post Sitamarhi, the train proceeds for Buxar where the sightseeing would include Ramrekha ghat and Rameshwarnath temple. The next destination is Varanasi where the tourists will visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple and corridor, Tulsi Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir temples and will also be witnessing the Ganga aarti."In the next couple of days, the passengers would be taken to Prayag, Shringverpur and Chitrakoot by road where night stay will also be provided, the IRCTC to the tour organiser, from Chitrakoot, the train will head towards the Northern part of Maharashtra with next halt at Nasik wherein Trimbakeshwar temple and Panchvati area will be covered."Hampi, believed to be the ancient city of Krishkindha is the next destination. Here Anjaneya Hill, regarded as the birth place of Lord Hanuman, will be covered along with other heritage sites like Vitthala and Virupaksha temple," the official said."Rameshwaram will be the next city on this train tour. Ramanathaswamy temple and Dhanuskodi are a part of the visit. The train returns back to Delhi on the 17th day of its journey," he added.
