In a move aimed at enhancing travel benefits for its workforce, the Indian Railway Board has officially doubled the seat quota for railway employees in the Chair Car (CC) class of Shatabdi Express trains. This update, detailed in an order issued on July 30, 2026, increases the allocation from two seats to four for employees falling under Pay Level in Pay Matrix (PLPM) 11 to 17. The decision is expected to provide significant relief to thousands of serving staff and retired personnel who frequently rely on these premium services.
Key updates regarding the new quota policy include:
- Seat allocation increased from 2 to 4 for CC class in Shatabdi Express trains.
- Applies to employees in Pay Level (PLPM) 11 to 17.
- Policy aligns CC class entitlements with 3-AC berths in Rajdhani and Duronto Express trains.
- Applicable to Privilege Pass (PP), Post Retirement Complimentary Pass (PRCP), and Widow Pass (WP) holders.
- Technical updates are underway at CRIS for e-pass modules.
Standardizing Travel Entitlements
This policy shift amends the previous Board letter dated October 28, 2022, effectively rationalizing travel entitlements across the national carrier. By aligning the Shatabdi CC class quotas with the 3-AC standards of Rajdhani and Duronto trains, the Railway Board has addressed long-standing requests to standardize duty pass entitlements. This change ensures greater equality in complimentary pass facilities for railway servants, a decision reached after thorough consultation with the Commercial (Passenger Marketing) Directorate.
Implementation and Impact
Rashmi Dahiya, Deputy Director (Welfare) of the Railway Board, has confirmed that the necessary instructions have been dispatched to the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS). The IT wing is currently working on technical modifications within the CRIS/PRS and CRIS/HRMS e-pass modules to reflect these changes immediately.
Railway officials have welcomed the move, noting its practical importance. Representatives, including Harbham Singh, Divisional President of NRMU Ambala, and Yashanjeet Singh, Senior Commercial Manager of Ambala Division, highlighted that the increased quota will be particularly beneficial during emergency travel situations. Previously, securing a quota seat on high-demand Shatabdi routes was a significant challenge for staff; this expansion of capacity is set to streamline travel logistics for those serving the organization.