IRCTC scheme for elderly causes confusion

NAGPUR: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation's (IRCTC) proposal to make it mandatory for senior citizens aged over 70 to carry all medical documents while travelling and be accompanied with a younger companion on package tours has raised many eyebrows and even caused confusion. Some thought the rule was meant for all travellers on the railways while others questioned if it had already been implemented.Also, whether the benefit could be derived by the general populace was a blur.
Secretary of Bhartiya Yatri Kendra, Basant Shukla clarified that no such circular has been issued as yet. "If at all it would be for those taking IRCTC packages," he said. "The idea is in the pipeline and no final call has been taken. Doctors in the aid of senior citizens have only been provided on Duronto trains," he added. Divisional secretary of National Railway Majdoor Union (NRMU) Govind Sharma also said it was only a proposal and implementation would be a distant dream.
However, he appeared to take it as a positive step even if implemented for all. "The gesture would be highly appreciated by all. It is hoped more emphasis is given on the thought of implementation at union level," he added. Group general manager of IRCTC, west zone, Virendra Singh was not available for comment. However, divisional commercial manager of central railway Jayshankar also made it clear it was only for people taking IRCTC package tours and not for all. "It would not be for common railway travelers," he said. Owner of a travel agency Sudhir Naidu welcome the rule if implemented on a national level. He said, "Senior citizens are provided with many benefits and this would be add on. Even if the condition is only for senior citizens travelling under the IRCTC package, it is a noble gesture."