Senior citizens to get free railway travel in proposed budget

Citizens aged 65 years and above will be given the opportunity to travel by train free of charge under social security and inclusive development initiatives, according to the proposed budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. However, a 25 per cent discounted fare will apply for metro rail travel.

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the proposed budget in the National Parliament on Thursday afternoon, June 11.

Several other proposals have been made under social security programmes. The number of disability allowance recipients will be increased to 38 lakh, and the monthly allowance raised to Tk 1,000. The number of disabled students receiving allowances will be increased to 1 lakh, with monthly allowances ranging from Tk 1,000 to Tk 1,400 depending on the level.

Under the Mother and Child Assistance Programme, 18.95 lakh mothers and children will receive Tk 850 per month. One-time assistance for patients suffering from six incurable diseases, including cancer, will be increased from Tk 50,000 to Tk 1 lakh.