Indian Railways is set to launch a special ticket-checking drive from October 1 to October 31, 2026.
The campaign will focus on checking the validity and authenticity of train tickets, especially during the festive season when passenger traffic is expected to increase.
The Central Railway will conduct this special drive. Passengers travelling on concessional tickets, fixed reservation quotas and railway passes will receive special attention during ticket checks.
Original ID Required for Some Tickets
Passengers travelling under concessional or fixed reservation quotas must carry the prescribed original identity document to prove their eligibility.
If several passengers are travelling on a single ticket, at least one passenger listed on the ticket must carry the required original ID.
If the prescribed original identification document is not available, the passengers may be treated as travelling without a valid ticket under the applicable railway rules.
Concession and Quota Tickets
Railway ticket-checking staff will verify the original documents of passengers travelling under concessional or fixed reservation quotas.
Passengers travelling using an E-Pass or PTO must also carry the prescribed original identity proof. They must also make sure that the E-Pass or PTO has been properly converted into the required travel authorization before starting their journey.
Unreserved Tickets Will Also Be Checked
The special campaign will also cover unreserved train tickets. Railway officials will check whether such tickets are genuine and valid.
Where required, ticket-checking staff may use the TTE App to verify and validate passenger tickets.
Why Railways Is Running This Drive
The special ticket-checking campaign is being conducted ahead of the festive season. The main objectives include preventing misuse of railway reservation facilities and stopping fraudulent use of concessions and railway passes.
Railways will also focus on checking ticket authenticity and preventing revenue losses caused by passengers travelling without valid tickets.
Valid ID Proof for Train Travel
Passengers should carry a valid identity document while travelling by train. Some of the documents accepted by Indian Railways include:
Voter Photo Identity Card issued by the Election Commission
Passport
PAN card
Driving licence issued by the RTO
Photo identity card issued by the Central or State Government
Photo student ID card issued by a recognised school or college
Nationalised bank passbook with photograph
Bank-issued credit card with laminated photograph
Aadhaar card
Passengers travelling under special quotas or concessions may need to carry specific documents prescribed for their particular category.
Minimum Fine Increased to ₹500
Indian Railways has also increased the minimum additional charge for travelling without a valid ticket. According to the information provided, the minimum fine increased from ₹250 to ₹500 from June 20, 2026.
The applicable provisions include Sections 137 and 138 of the Railways Act, 1989. Passengers are therefore advised to carry valid tickets and the required documents to avoid penalties.
What Happens Without a Valid Ticket
Under Section 137 of the Railways Act, travelling on a train without proper permission or using a ticket or pass with the intention of defrauding the railway administration is an offence.
In such cases, the passenger may have to pay the applicable fare along with an additional amount. The minimum additional charge can be ₹500.
If the amount is not paid, railway authorities can take further recovery action through the competent court. Depending on the circumstances, the offence can also lead to imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to ₹500, or both.
Passengers travelling during the festive season should therefore make sure that their tickets are valid and that they carry the required original identification documents.
