Indian Railways has issued a warning for passengers who book tickets through unauthorized agents. Some agents are selling tickets under the Foreign Tourist (FT) Quota to Indian citizens to provide confirmed seats. This practice is illegal and can lead to heavy fines and legal action during ticket verification.
ℹ️: Indian Railways 18th Zone: South Coast Railway to start operations from June 1 2026।
What is FT Quota and who can use it?
The Foreign Tourist (FT) Quota is a special category reserved only for foreign nationals visiting India. Indian citizens cannot book tickets under this quota. To travel using this facility, a passenger must produce a valid Passport and Visa. Indian passengers must book their tickets under the General Quota only.
Sanghamitra Express case and penalties
A major crackdown took place on the 12296 Sanghamitra Express where railway authorities caught passengers using the wrong quota. The details of the action are as follows:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Train Name | 12296 Sanghamitra Express |
| Passengers Caught | 121 |
| Total Fine Collected | ₹3.56 Lakh |
How to avoid these scams?
Passengers are advised to always check the quota mentioned on their ticket before starting the journey. To stay safe from fraud, book tickets only through the official IRCTC website or the official mobile app. Avoid relying on agents who promise confirmed tickets through special quotas that do not apply to Indian citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if an Indian passenger travels on an FT Quota ticket?
It is against railway rules. Passengers can be fined heavily and may face legal action as this quota is only for foreign tourists with a passport and visa.
How can I ensure my ticket is booked correctly?
Always use the official IRCTC website or app for booking and carefully check the quota type on your ticket before traveling.