Indian Railways has introduced a significant update in the process of reserving railway tickets for children.
In a departure from the traditional offline method, parents can now seamlessly book reservation tickets for their children from the comfort of their homes.
The Director (PM) clarified that despite this change, the fees for child seats and non-seat options remain unchanged.
ACM (R) Harish Chaturvedi highlighted that children aged 1 to 10 years are required to pay the full seat fare.
Transition from Offline to Online Ticketing
Previously, obtaining railway tickets for children between 5 to 11 years involved a visit to the railway station.
Railway’s Deputy CCM (R) Atul Srivastava and reservation expert Ajay Kashmiri explained that the process was necessary even if tickets for children were booked later and no separate seat was required.
However, a recent software update by Chris has eliminated the need for physical visits, enabling parents to book half-priced children’s tickets online through IRCTC.
Child Ticket Rules and Guidelines
As per railway regulations, children aged 1 to 4 years can travel without a separate reserved berth. Children below 5 years can travel ticket-free.
For children aged 5 to 12 years, a half-priced ticket is required unless a separate berth is desired, in which case the full fare is applicable.
Streamlined Online Booking Process
To book train tickets online, visit the IRCTC website, choose the boarding and destination stations, select the preferred train, check ticket availability, and fill in passenger details.
अब ऑनलाइन रिजर्वेशन में भी आधे किराए में बच्चों का टिकट @NWRailways @RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw pic.twitter.com/0DX6SrJOp4
— DRM Jaipur (@DRMJaipur) January 28, 2024
After payment, the booking details will be sent via email or phone.
Documents Required for Online Booking
Ensure you have the following documents for online booking:
Aadhar card
Voter photo identity card
Passport
Driving license
PAN card
Central/State Government-issued photo identity card
Student ID card with photo
Bank passbook with photo
Laminated Photograph Credit Cards
Photo ID with serial number.
