Pune: So far, the Railway Board used to give concession during travel in 53 categories, but for the first time, transgenders above 60 years will be given 40 per cent concession. Earlier, Railways and IRCTC had included transgender as the third gender in ticket reservations and ticket cancellation forms.
The Railway Board has issued a circular on December 14 which stated, “40 per cent concession in passengers fare will be given to transgender senior citizens whose age is 60 and above.”
The circular says, “Concession is admissible to men senior citizens of the age of 60 years and above and 50 years and above in case of women senior citizens of Indian nationality. The element of concession is 40 per cent for men senior citizens and 50 per cent for women senior citizens. As an interim measure till finalisation of uniform policy by Minister of Law and Justice, it has now been decided to grant 40 per cent concession in passenger fare to transgender senior citizens of the age of 60 years and above.”
“This will be implemented with effect from January 1, 2019. Other terms and conditions will remain the same. CRIS and IRCTC may make necessary changes in the software. Necessary instructions will be issued to all concerned. This is with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways,” the circular said.In January 2016, the Supreme Court had issued an order directing the ministry to look into possibilities of providing travel concession and other facilities to transgenders.
“It is a very good initiative taken by the Railways. We have heard about several cases where transgenders have been humiliated or harassed on trains. This is a step towards inclusivity of the community in the society. With their initiative to provide such a facility will create awareness among commoners,” said transgender activist Sonali Dalvi.
53 categories join concession during travel
Passengers are currently receiving concession in 53 categories. The concession is from 25 per cent to 100 per cent for Divyang, patients, senior citizens, award winners, widows of martyrs, farmers, and others.
