New train services, expanded non-AC facilities, and low fares strengthen India’s rail transport network
TFP Bureau, New Delhi, 11 Feb 2026: Indian Railways continues to reinforce its position as one of the most affordable and accessible transport networks globally, providing travel services to over 720 crore passengers annually. In the first nine months of the current financial year 2025-26, Indian Railways has introduced 245 new trains, extended 101 existing services, and increased the frequency of eight others across the country. Additionally, approximately 65,000 special trains were operated to meet festive, seasonal, and holiday travel demand, while 767 coaches were permanently added to enhance passenger accommodation.
The expansion reflects a strategic focus on modernizing rail infrastructure, improving passenger comfort, and providing affordable travel for low- and middle-income families. To cater to growing demand, Indian Railways operates 57,200 non-AC coaches, accounting for roughly 70% of the total 82,200 coaches, and providing approximately 54 lakh non-AC seats, or 78% of all seats. These include general and sleeper coaches, designed to accommodate the majority of passengers who seek affordable travel options. The remaining 25,000 AC coaches offer enhanced comfort for premium passengers.
Indian Railways has also introduced new design trainsets aimed at improving travel quality and efficiency:
- Vande Bharat Chair Car Services: 164 services now operate with modern coaches, advanced safety systems, and improved passenger amenities, offering a semi-high-speed alternative at fares nine times cheaper than Japan and three times cheaper than China for similar distances.
- Vande Bharat Sleeper Services: Two services cater to long-distance passengers with modern safety features and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
- Amrit Bharat Services: Fully non-AC trains providing affordable options for low- and middle-income families, comprising 11 general coaches, eight sleeper coaches, a pantry car, and two luggage/divyangjan coaches. Currently, 54 Amrit Bharat Express services operate nationwide.
- Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Services: Four services enhance suburban and regional travel, offering speed, comfort, and convenience for short-distance commuters.
The railways also continue to operate special trains during major festivals such as Holi, Durga Puja, Diwali, Chhath, Christmas, Sabrimala, and Id-ul-Fitr, ensuring that passengers’ travel needs are met during peak periods. In 2025-26 alone, 65,000 special trains were operated, supplementing regular services and adding temporary and permanent coaches to meet high demand.
Over the past decade, Indian Railways has consistently focused on maintaining affordable fares while expanding services. Passenger fares in India remain among the lowest globally. Ordinary class fares are 2.5 times cheaper than neighbouring countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka, while semi-high-speed services such as Vande Bharat trains cost only ₹2.19 per PKM, compared to ₹7 in China and ₹20 in Japan. This affordability is made possible through substantial subsidies; in 2023-24, Indian Railways provided ₹60,466 crore in subsidies, translating to an average 45% concession per passenger. Additional concessions continue for categories such as persons with disabilities, patients, and students.
Passenger growth reflects this strategy: in general/unreserved coaches, the number of passengers increased from 553 crore in 2022-23 to 651 crore in 2024-25, showing steady annual growth. To meet this demand, Mail and Express trains typically feature 12 non-AC coaches and 8 AC coaches in a 22-coach composition, prioritizing affordability and access.
The current infrastructure expansion is part of a broader national transport growth initiative. Since 2014, India has added approximately 35,000 km of railway tracks, 58,232 km of national highways and expressways, 90 operational airports, and 848 km of metro network across 21 new cities, reflecting a significant modal shift in passenger and freight transport.
In terms of fare management, Indian Railways undertakes continuous rationalization to ensure affordability and operational sustainability. In FY 2025-26, two minor fare adjustments were implemented, with increases ranging from half paise to two paise per kilometer, leaving essential services and suburban travel fares unchanged. These adjustments are carefully calibrated to balance service costs, socio-economic considerations, and competition with other transport modes.
Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, highlighted these developments in a response to questions in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing Indian Railways’ commitment to affordable, safe, and reliable travel for all sections of society.
With expanding services, modern trainsets, enhanced safety, and one of the most cost-effective fare structures in the world, Indian Railways continues to be the backbone of affordable mass transit in India, meeting the mobility needs of millions while supporting socio-economic growth across the country.
