Archive · 19 Dec 2025
Indian Railways Updates Ticket Policies
Indian Railways has made it easier for passengers to know if their train tickets are confirmed.
Now, people with waiting list (WL) or reservation against cancellation (RAC) tickets can check their ticket status 10 hours before the train leaves.
This gives them more time to plan if their seats are not confirmed.
Earlier, passengers only found out 4 hours before departure.
The Railway Board has also brought back special discounts and help for senior citizens, making train travel easier and more comfortable for them.
This includes better assistance at stations and on trains.
Passengers can book tickets online through IRCTC or offline at PRS counters.
Most people now prefer online booking, which makes up over 87% of all reserved tickets.
Indian Railways now allows passengers to check WL/RAC ticket status 10 hours before departure.
Previous policy only provided ticket status 4 hours before departure.
Chart preparation timing varies based on train departure time.
Senior citizen concessions and special facilities have been reintroduced.
Elderly passengers will receive priority-based help and comfort during their journey.
Passengers can book tickets online through IRCTC or offline at PRS counters.
- Who
- Indian Railways and passengers with WL or RAC tickets
- What
- Change in ticket status check timing and senior citizen concessions
- When
- Effective immediately, with previous changes in July 2025
- Where
- All Indian Railways stations and trains
- Why
- To provide passengers with more time to make alternative travel arrangements and to support elderly travelers
- Change Announcement
- Passengers can now check ticket status 10 hours before departure
- Previous Policy
- Ticket status was available 4 hours before departure
- Updated Policy
- Ticket status available 10 hours before departure
- Chart Preparation Timing
- Varies based on train departure time
- Senior Citizen Concessions
- Return of concessions and special facilities for elderly passengers
- Priority Services
- Better assistance at stations and on trains for elderly passengers
- Booking Modes
- Online (IRCTC) and offline (PRS counters)
- E-ticketing Share
- Over 87% of reserved tickets
Sources
Ticket Still In WL Or RAC? You Can Now Check Its Status 10 Hours Before Train Departure
Indian Railways new chart timing: Important updates for waiting list, RAC passengers
Indian Railways PNR Status: Here’s what GNWL, RLWL and PQWL mean for your journey
