Many passengers often get confused when they see the term NOSB on their railway tickets. This status is specifically for children traveling with their parents. It is a fare-saving option provided by Indian Railways for a specific age group.
What is NOSB and who can use it?
NOSB stands for No Seat Berth. This means the child is traveling without a separate seat or berth assigned to them. This option is available for children aged 5 to below 12 years. Under this rule, parents pay half the adult fare, and the child shares the berth with the parent.
Important rules for NOSB bookings
The NOSB provision was introduced via Railway Board Circular No. 60 of 2018. It is important to note that this is not a waitlist status and will not change to a seat number during chart preparation. If a parent wants a separate berth for the child, they must pay the full adult fare.
| Feature | NOSB Details |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 5 to 11 years |
| Fare | Half of adult fare |
| Seat Allotment | No separate seat/berth |
| Applicable Classes | AC 1A, 2A, 3A |
| Not Allowed In | CC, EC, 2S |
| Cancellation | Linked to parent ticket |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does NOSB status change to a seat number after chart preparation?
No, NOSB is not a waitlist status. It specifically means no separate berth was requested, so it will not change to a seat number during charting.
Can I book an NOSB ticket for a child in Chair Car (CC) class?
No, NOSB bookings are only allowed in berth-type AC classes like 1A, 2A, and 3A. It is not permitted in CC, EC, or 2S classes.