In a significant move towards maintaining decency and public safety, Indian Railways has adopted a comprehensive ethical policy for advertisements displayed on trains (both inside and outside coaches) and at station premises.
Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, informed the Rajya Sabha on Friday that advertisements promoting alcoholic drinks, tobacco products (including cigarettes and bidis), content with erotic backgrounds, and policies from private insurance companies offering coverage against railway accidents are strictly prohibited.
Speaking in response to a question in the Upper House, the Minister emphasised that Indian Railways follows a policy-driven approach under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative to generate non-fare revenue through advertising and branding while upholding ethical standards.
“Advertisements that are objectionable in the eyes of law are prohibited,” Vaishnaw stated. “This includes alcoholic drinks, tobacco & smoking products, advertisements against erotic background scenes, competitive advertisements from other modes of transport, and ads from private insurance companies offering policies against railway accidents.”
Transparent Process and Strict Compliance
All advertisement contracts are awarded through a fair and transparent e-auction process on the Indian Railways E-Procurement System (IREPS) online portal. The selection of bidders follows the policy on Commercial Earnings and Non-Fare Revenue, along with clearly defined Special Conditions of Contract.
While advertising agencies have the prerogative to select brands, every advertising plan for trains requires prior approval from the Divisional Authority of the concerned Railway Division. Agencies are mandated to strictly comply with all Central and State laws. In case of any violation, immediate corrective action is taken.
Indian Railways leverages multiple platforms for advertising, including:
- Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising in station circulating areas
- Rail Display Network (RDN) for digital screens
- Branding on mobile assets such as trains and coaches (inside and outside)
Revenue generated from these advertisements forms part of the Sundry Revenue of Indian Railways, with detailed segment-wise figures available in the Annual Statistical Statement.
The Minister highlighted that no erotic content is displayed anywhere on railway premises or trains, reinforcing the commitment to a family-friendly environment across the world’s largest railway network.
This policy reflects Indian Railways’ balanced approach — maximising non-fare revenue opportunities while ensuring advertisements remain ethical, lawful, and appropriate for millions of passengers who travel daily.
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