Railway Prohibits Objectionable Ads Under Non-Fare Revenue Policy

Indian Railways has reiterated its Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) policy framework governing advertisements across railway infrastructure, clarifying that advertisements considered objectionable under law will not be permitted at railway stations or on trains.

The clarification comes in the context of the existing NFR regime, under which advertising is permitted across multiple platforms, including Out-of-Home (OOH) media in station circulating areas, digital displays under the Rail Display Network (RDN), and branding on trains and coaches, both internally and externally. Advertising contracts are awarded through e-auction on the Indian Railways E-Procurement System (IREPS and bidders are selected in accordance with the policy on Commercial Earnings and Non-Fare Revenue along with the applicable Special Conditions of Contract, which specify the eligibility criteria for advertisers.

The Indian Railways has clarified that certain categories of advertisements are strictly prohibited. These include advertisements relating to alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, bidis and other tobacco products, as well as advertisements featuring erotic or sexually suggestive content. In addition, advertisements from private insurance companies offering policies against railway accidents and competitive advertisements from other modes of transport are not permitted.

For advertisements displayed on trains, prior approval of the advertising plan is mandatory and must be obtained from the Divisional Authority of the concerned Railway Division. While advertising agencies have discretion in selecting brands, they are required to comply with applicable Central and State laws governing advertisements.

Indian Railways has stated that immediate corrective action will be taken in the event of any violation of these guidelines, reinforcing its policy-driven approach to advertising across railway infrastructure.