A train for unemployed youth

Sat, Jan 2 12:10 PM

Mumbai, Jan. 2 -- It's a special train for unemployed youth. 'Yuva Train', an air-conditioned train will ply from Mumbai Central to Delhi from January 12.

The Railway ministry will start the low-cost train (Rs 299 a ticket), which is targeted at unemployed youth. It will only have seating but no sleepers.

The brainchild of Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee, Yuva train fares can be availed of by unemployed people in the age group of 15 to 45 years, provided they have a certificate issued under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act or a registration card issued by a government employment exchange.

Tickets will be issued on production of original of any of the above certificates at the counter, a photocopy of which should be retained with reservation requisition as in the case with other concessions. Tatkal scheme will not be applicable in 'Yuva Trains'.

Initially, 60 per cent of coaches on such trains will be earmarked for the youth. The remaining will be set aside for other passengers, which will be reviewed after six months of introduction of these trains.

The Mumbai-Delhi service will happen next week as a pilot project. If successful, it will be extended to other areas of the country.