Booking a half ticket for a child when traveling by train in India is an essential aspect for families. The Indian Railways provides a concession for children under certain age groups, offering the option to book half tickets at a reduced fare. With the advent of the IRCTC online ticketing system, booking a half ticket for children has become convenient.
Eligibility for Half Tickets in Indian Railways
The Indian Railways categorizes child passengers based on age groups for ticket booking:
Children Under 5 Years:
No ticket is required for children below 5 years of age.
They are not allotted a separate berth or seat and must share with an adult.
Children Aged 5–11 Years:
Half tickets are applicable for children aged 5–11 years.
A reduced fare is charged for these tickets.
You can choose to book with or without a separate berth/seat.
A full adult fare is charged if a berth or seat is requested.
Children Above 12 Years:
Full fare applies as they are considered adults for ticket booking.
Benefits of Booking a Half Ticket
Cost savings for families traveling with children.
Flexibility in choosing whether or not to reserve a berth or seat for the child.
Seamless integration with adult ticket bookings through IRCTC.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Half Ticket on IRCTC
Step 1: Login to the IRCTC Portal
Visit the IRCTC website or use the IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app.
Enter your username and password to log in. If you are not registered, sign up for an account.
Step 2: Search for Trains
Enter the departure and destination stations.
Select the travel date and choose your preferred class (Sleeper, AC, etc.).
Click on Search Trains to view the list of available trains.
Step 3: Select a Train
Choose a train that suits your schedule.
Check the availability of seats/berths and click Book Now.
Step 4: Enter Passenger Details
Fill in the details of all passengers, including adults and children.
For the child passenger:
Provide the child’s name, age, and gender.
The system will automatically calculate the fare based on the age.
Step 5: Choose Half Ticket Option
For children aged 5–11 years, the IRCTC system will prompt whether a separate berth/seat is required:
Yes: Full fare will be charged.
No: Half fare will be charged, but the child will not get a separate berth or seat.
Step 6: Review Fare
Verify the total fare displayed. The system will include the discounted rate for the half ticket.
Ensure the passenger details and fare calculations are accurate.
Step 7: Make Payment
Choose your preferred payment method (credit/debit card, UPI, net banking, etc.).
Complete the payment process.
Step 8: Receive Booking Confirmation
Once payment is successful, the booking confirmation will appear on the screen.
You will receive an email and SMS with the PNR number and ticket details.
Important Points to Remember
Berth Allocation:
If a berth is not selected for the child, they must share the berth with an accompanying adult.
Tatkal and Half Tickets:
In Tatkal bookings, the child fare is charged at full rate regardless of whether a berth is reserved or not.
Changes in Rules:
Keep an eye on updates to Indian Railways policies as child ticket rules may change.
Carry Proof of Age:
Carry a valid age proof for the child (birth certificate, school ID, or Aadhaar) during the journey to avoid discrepancies.
Group Bookings:
If traveling with multiple children, repeat the process for each child.
Booking Through IRCTC App
The process for booking half tickets on the IRCTC Rail Connect app mirrors the website.
Open the app and log in.
Follow the steps to search for trains and enter passenger details.
Choose the half-ticket option for eligible children and proceed with payment.
FAQ About Half Tickets for Children
Q: Can I book a half ticket for a child at the railway counter?
A: Yes, half tickets can also be booked at railway reservation counters.
Q: Can I modify the ticket to add a berth for the child later?
A: You may need to cancel and rebook the ticket if a berth allocation is required after booking.
Q: What happens if I don’t book a ticket for a child?
A: If a child above 5 years is traveling without a ticket, a penalty may be charged.
Booking a half ticket for children on IRCTC is a straightforward process that ensures convenience and cost savings for families. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the simple steps outlined above, you can seamlessly book tickets and enjoy a hassle-free journey. Always check the latest Indian Railways policies to stay informed about any updates related to child ticket bookings.
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