Indian Railways: No fare for kids below 5 years UNLESS a berth or seat is booked

Ministry of Railways has confirmed that children below 5 years of age can travel for free on a train, however, no berth shall be allotted to them.

Recent reports claimed that the Indian Railways has updated the rule for the ticket and fare for children below 5 years of age. As per the reports, the fare will be charged for children younger than 5 years as well. Now, the ministry of railways has issued a statement to clear the air, which confirms that fare for children below 5 years won’t be charged, unless a seat or berth is reserved for them. However, by paying the adult fare, a seat or berth can be booked for them.

The circular reads, "It is informed that Indian Railways has not introduced any changes with regards to booking of tickets for children travelling in the train. On the demand of the passengers, an option has been given to them to buy a ticket and book a berth for their under 5 year old child if they want. And if they don’t want a separate berth, then it is free, same like it used to be earlier."

A Circular dated 06.03.2020 of Ministry of Railways states that Children under five years of age shall be carried free. However, separate berth or seat (in chair car) shall not be given. Therefore purchase of any ticket is not required provided separate berth is not claimed. However, if berth/seat shall be sought on voluntary basis for children of age below 5 years then full adult fare shall be charged.