Editor’s Note
This article reports on the early trading activity of IRCTC shares, noting a gain of nearly 1 percent amid broader market volatility. The information is based on preliminary data from the market open.
Amid volatility in the market, IRCTC shares witnessed activity today. The company’s shares recorded a gain of nearly 1 percent in early trading.
IRCTC shares closed at ₹681.55 on Monday. When the market opened on Tuesday morning, the stock reached ₹686.55 and soon touched a level of ₹686.85. However, the impact of market volatility was also seen on the stock. By 11 AM, it was trading at ₹682.80, which is only 0.20% higher than the previous closing price.
Indian Railways has decided to increase fares for passenger trains across all categories, effective from the upcoming 26th December. The new fare will primarily apply to long-distance travel. For the general category, it will apply to journeys exceeding 215 kilometers. Meanwhile, fares for Mail or Express (non-AC) trains have been increased by 2 paise per kilometer. Additionally, fares for AC categories have been raised by 2 paise per kilometer. It is noted that there has been no increase for daily passenger facilities on local trains, Monthly Season Tickets (MST), and general category journeys of less than 215 kilometers.
This change is expected to increase revenue by approximately ₹600 crore, which is the reason for the buying interest in IRCTC shares. Regarding IRCTC’s share performance, on February 1st this year, the stock was at a high level of ₹838.35, but it has seen a continuous decline since then. In March, it made its 52-week low at ₹655.70. In today’s trading, it is trading just 4% above that 52-week low. In 2025, IRCTC shares have declined by 14 percent. In November, it recorded a 4.5% decline, while in December, a weakness of 0.5 percent persists.
She further explained that with good penetration already achieved in ticket booking, the company’s focus is now shifting towards more profitable non-convenience fees and other ancillary services. This will bring stability to earnings. Segments like catering and Rail Neer are consistently generating good cash flow, while the tourism business has now become a major driver of growth and profitability. There is strong demand for luxury trains like the Bharat Gaurav trains and Maharaja Express. Overall, experts believe that a monopoly company like IRCTC presents a good opportunity for long-term investors, although there may be some volatility in the short term.