MPs Urge Government to Restore Train Fare Concessions for Seniors and Journalists

Members of Parliament have urged the government to reinstate the 50% train fare concession for senior citizens and journalists that was discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic. Various MPs raised this issue during a debate on railway grants, highlighting the need for these concessions to support vulnerable groups, students, and theatre artists.

In a renewed appeal, Members of Parliament on Wednesday pressured the government to reinstate the 50 per cent train fare concession for senior citizens and journalists, a benefit suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During a debate on railway grants in the Lok Sabha, Independent MP Pappu Yadav and MDMK's Durai Vaiko emphasized the growing demand to resume these discounts. Vaiko stressed the concession's importance for the 'fourth pillar of democracy' - the press and media - and called for its immediate restoration, along with seasonal ticket concessions for students.

Before the pandemic lockdown in March 2020, Indian Railways provided a 50 per cent fare concession for senior citizens and accredited journalists. MPs also called for improved train safety, additional general compartments, and resuming canceled trains for public benefit.