New Delhi, March 26: The Government of India has approved lifetime free railway travel for Sena Medal, Nau Sena Medal, and Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) awardees, along with select family members. The decision, confirmed by the Ministry of Defence, brings a long-overdue recognition for armed forces personnel decorated for acts of courage on the frontlines.

Indian Railways will provide complimentary travel in First Class, AC 2-tier, and AC Chair Car to all eligible gallantry awardees. One companion travelling alongside the awardee will also be covered under the scheme at no charge.

Spouses of awardees, including widows and widowers, will remain eligible until remarriage. Where the award has been granted posthumously to unmarried personnel, their parents will be entitled to the same travel benefit.
The facility is valid for life and applies across the full Indian Railways network, covering both serving soldiers and retired veterans who hold these gallantry honours.

The announcement was first reported by ANI and has since drawn widespread appreciation from veterans’ communities and the public. Defence officials have formally confirmed the scheme.

This latest armed forces welfare measure reflects the Centre’s continued commitment to recognising military personnel who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in service to the nation.

Key Details at a Glance

∙   Eligible Awards: Sena Medal, Nau Sena Medal, Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)
∙   Train Classes Covered: First Class, AC 2-tier, AC Chair Car
∙   Companion Benefit: One companion per journey, free of charge
∙   Family Coverage: Spouse (until remarriage); parents of unmarried posthumous awardees
∙   Validity: Lifetime, across all Indian Railways routes

Further implementation guidelines are expected from the Ministry of Defence and Indian Railways.