Patna: Indian Railways has announced a new pilot scheme to make festive travel easier and less crowded. Passengers who book both their onward and return journey together will get a 20% discount on the basic fare of the return ticket. The same group of passengers must travel in both directions, and the journey must be between the same stations and in the same class.
Booking for this scheme will start on 14 August 2025 for onward journeys between 13 October and 26 October 2025. The return journey must be between 17 November and 1 December 2025. The usual 60-day advance booking rule will not apply for the return trip. Only confirmed tickets will be allowed under this plan.
The offer will be available in all train classes, including special trains, but not in flexi fare trains. Tickets booked under this scheme cannot be modified or refunded, and no extra discounts, coupons, or passes can be used. Bookings must be made either fully online or fully at reservation counters.
Officials say the scheme will help manage crowds during the busy festive period while giving passengers a chance to save money. It is expected to ensure trains run at full capacity in both directions.
