Indian Railways Updates Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Services from 2026

Indian Railways is introducing significant changes to its Amrit Bharat Express and Vande Bharat Sleeper Express services starting January 2026. Amrit Bharat trains will eliminate RAC in sleeper class, offering only confirmed or wait-listed tickets, and introduce minimum fare distances, affecting short-distance pricing. Vande Bharat Sleeper Express features updated cancellation charges with extended refund timelines. The Vande Bharat Sleeper, a premium overnight train with modern amenities, is being rolled out primarily in West Bengal, prompting discussions about its availability in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana amid political and passenger demand considerations.