In a major boost to passenger comfort, Indian Railways has mandated that RAC passengers in AC coaches will now receive full bedroll kits, including blankets.

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Key Takeaways

  • RAC passengers in AC coaches will now receive full bedroll kits.
  • The Railway Board has issued immediate instructions to all zonal railways.
  • The decision follows numerous passenger complaints regarding inadequate bedding.
  • This rule applies to all AC coaches except AC Chair Car.

In a significant move to enhance passenger amenities, Indian Railways has revised its rules for travelers in AC coaches. Previously, passengers holding RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) tickets faced significant discomfort as they were not provided with complete bedroll kits, a privilege reserved only for confirmed passengers.

What is the New Rule?

Under the newly issued directive from the Railway Board, every RAC passenger traveling in AC coaches will now be entitled to a complete bedroll kit, which includes a bedsheet, blanket, and pillow. Historically, RAC passengers were often only provided with a sheet and a pillow, while attendants frequently denied them blankets, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this decision is a direct response to a surge in grievances reported via railway helplines. Passengers frequently complained about being forced to share bedding or being denied essential items like blankets. To address this, the Railway Board issued a formal order on August 4, 2026, to all zonal railways, including NCR, to ensure strict compliance.

This policy shift marks a significant step toward equitable service standards across all categories of AC travel in India.

The order has been directed to be implemented with immediate effect. Railway officials have emphasized that this rule must be strictly followed on all major routes, including trains passing through Prayagraj, and instructions have been passed to IRCTC and other relevant departments for seamless execution.

Historical Background

For decades, the distinction between confirmed and RAC passengers in Indian Railways has been a point of contention regarding comfort levels. While confirmed passengers enjoyed full amenities, the 'half-seat' nature of RAC often meant that basic necessities like bedding were treated as secondary, leading to the current systemic overhaul.

Did You Know?: The Indian Railways network is one of the largest employers in the world, serving millions of passengers daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does this rule apply to AC Chair Car passengers?
No, the directive specifically excludes AC Chair Cars from this mandate.

2. What should I do if I am not provided with a bedroll?
Passengers can lodge an immediate complaint through the RailMadad app or the official railway helpline.