Railway Minister Lalu Prasad on Tuesday doled out concessions to students, women and AIDS patients.

Railways have decided to extend free monthly season tickets for second class travel between school and home for girl students up to graduation and boys up to Class XII, Prasad announced in the Rail Budget.

Earlier, this facility was available to girl students up to Class XII and boy students up to Class X.

Prasad also announced a concession of 50 per cent in second class passenger fares for rail travel by AIDS patients to nominated ART centres for treatment.

Railways also increased the concession provided to woman senior citizens in passenger fares of all classes from 30 per cent to 50 per cent.

Prasad also announced the extension of the scheme for travel concessions for decorated soldiers in Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains. Paramvir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra awardees are entitled for travelling in AC-II tier along with one companion, which is valid in Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains.

Railway Budget: 2008-09