The Railway Ministry officially announced a rise in train ticket prices on December 25, 2025. From December 26, fares will increase by 1 paise per kilometre for ordinary class journeys over 215 km. For non-AC and AC classes of mail and express trains, fares will increase by 2 paise per kilometre. This is the second fare hike this year after July. The Ministry explained the hike aims to balance passenger affordability with sustainable operations. Short journeys up to 215 km in second class ordinary will see no fare increase, protecting daily commuters. For longer trips, the fare rise is stepped: Rs 5 extra for 216-750 km, Rs 10 for 751-1250 km, Rs 15 for 1251-1750 km, and Rs 20 for 1751-2250 km. Sleeper and first class ordinary fares rise by 1 paise per km. Mail and express trains, including sleeper, first class and AC classes like AC chair car and AC 3-tier, see a 2 paise per km hike. For example, a 500 km trip in a non-AC mail or express train will cost about Rs 10 more. Fares for popular trains including Tejas, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, and others have been revised accordingly. Tickets booked before December 26 will not be affected, even if travel happens later. Updated fare charts will be displayed at stations from December 26. The Ministry stressed Indian Railways remains dedicated to safe, reliable, and affordable travel. The changes aim for a balanced approach that supports passengers and covers operational costs.