Train Ticket Fare Hike Comes into Effect from Today
The Indian Railways has implemented a revised train fare structure starting today, December 26, 2025. The new fare hike applies to tickets booked on or after this date, while passengers who booked tickets earlier will not be charged any additional amount, even if their journey falls after December 26.
According to the Ministry of Railways, fare charts at railway stations will be updated to reflect the revised prices. This marks the second fare increase this year, following a previous revision announced in July.
Reasons for the Fare Hike
The Railways Ministry stated that the fare revision is aimed at maintaining affordable passenger services while ensuring the financial sustainability of railway operations. The ministry explained that the restructuring seeks to balance passenger convenience with long-term operational viability.
Who Will Be Affected - and Who Will Not
The fare hike does not affect all passengers.
- No change in fares for suburban train services and season tickets.
- No fare increase for ordinary second-class passengers travelling up to 215 km, providing relief to daily commuters and short-distance travelers.
Revised Fare Structure: Detailed Overview
Ordinary Class (Non-AC):
Up to 215 km: No change
216 km – 750 km: ₹5 increase
751 km – 1250 km: ₹10 increase
1251 km – 1750 km: ₹15 increase
1751 km – 2250 km: ₹20 increase
Sleeper Class (Ordinary) & First Class (Ordinary):
- Fare increased by 1 paisa per kilometre for non-suburban journeys.
- Mail/Express Trains (AC & Non-AC):
- Fare increased by 2 paisa per kilometre across all classes.
- For example, a 500 km non-AC Mail/Express journey will cost approximately ₹10 extra.
Trains Covered Under the Fare Revision
The revised base fares apply to major train services including Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Mahamana, Gatimaan, Antyodaya, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, and ordinary non-suburban services (excluding AC MEMU/DEMU).
The Railways clarified that the revised fares are applicable only for tickets booked on or after December 26, 2025, ensuring no retrospective burden on passengers who booked earlier.
