In a major push toward modernization and paperless governance, Indian Railways has officially transitioned to a fully digital system for issuing duty passes. Starting July 15, 2026, all physical and manual duty passes will be discontinued, making the Human Resource Management System (HRMS) the exclusive platform for all pass-related activities. This directive, issued by the Railway Board to all Zonal Railways on July 13, 2026, aims to streamline administrative workflows and ensure greater transparency across the national transporter.
- Full Digital Transition: Manual issuance of duty passes ends completely on July 15, 2026.
- Unified Platform: The HRMS Duty Pass Module is now the only authorized system for processing passes.
- Mobile Integration: Employees can now manage passes and book tickets via the RailOne Mobile Application.
- Emergency Protocols: All previous exceptions allowing physical passes in emergencies have been revoked.
- Validations: Existing physical passes issued before the deadline remain valid only until their stated expiry.
Enhancing Efficiency for Railway Personnel
The shift to a digital-first approach is designed to simplify life for railway staff. By integrating the HRMS platform with the official RailOne Mobile Application, employees can now apply for duty passes and book both unreserved and reserved tickets directly from their smartphones. This convenience eliminates the need for staff to visit administrative offices, effectively allowing them to manage their travel requirements from the comfort of their homes.
The impact of this digital overhaul is significant, with over 6,000 railway personnel in the Jammu Rail Division alone expected to benefit from the streamlined process. Jaya Kumar, Joint Director (Pay Commission & HRMS) of the Railway Board, has emphasized that all Zonal Railways must strictly adhere to these new protocols to ensure a smooth transition. By removing the manual burden from field units, the Railways expects a more robust and error-free system that minimizes delays and enhances overall operational efficiency. This initiative marks another milestone in Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to embracing digital technology for its vast workforce.