Railways Bans Objectionable Ads: Ashwini Vaishnaw
Synopsis
In a recent statement, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that Indian Railways prohibits advertisements for alcoholic drinks and tobacco, aiming to maintain legal compliance in its advertising practices.
Key Takeaways
Objectionable ads such as alcohol and tobacco are banned in Indian Railways.
Prior approval for advertisements is required from the Divisional Authority.
Advertising agencies must comply with Central and State Laws .
All contracts are awarded through an e-auction system.
Immediate action is taken against violations.
New Delhi, March 28 (NationPress) The Indian Railways has established guidelines aimed at generating non-fare revenue through advertising and branding efforts. However, ads deemed objectionable under the law, such as those promoting alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and smoking, are strictly forbidden, according to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Before any advertisements can be shown on trains, prior authorization for each advertising proposal is required and must be submitted to the office of the Divisional Authority in the respective Railway Division.
“Nonetheless, the choice of brands for advertisement placement falls under the discretion of the advertising agency. The agency must comply with both Central and State Laws regarding advertisement displays. Advertisements considered objectionable by law are not allowed,” the minister stated during a session in the Rajya Sabha.
According to the Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising policy, there are opportunities for advertising in public areas of stations. The Rail Display Network (RDN) policy facilitates digital advertising through screens and display systems in stations and surrounding areas.
Moreover, mobile assets, including trains and coaches (both interior and exterior), have been utilized for branding and advertising within the current guidelines.
All advertising contracts are awarded through an e-auction system on the Indian Railways E-Procurement System (IREPS) online portal, with bidders selected based on the policy regarding Commercial Earnings and Non-Fare Revenue, along with the relevant Special Conditions of Contract that detail eligibility criteria for advertisers, the minister informed.
Ads that are prohibited from being displayed inside or outside of trains include: advertisements for alcoholic beverages, those featuring erotic scenes, competitive ads from alternative transport modes, ads from private insurance firms offering policies against Railway Accidents, and advertisements for cigarettes, bidis, and other tobacco products, according to an official announcement.
“Should any violations occur, immediate corrective measures are implemented,” the minister added.
Point of View
They ensure that public transport spaces are not misused for promoting harmful products, reflecting a commitment to societal well-being.
NationPress
20 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of ads are prohibited in Indian Railways?
Ads for alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, erotic content, and competitive advertisements from other transport modes are prohibited.
How does the Indian Railways select advertising contracts?
All advertisement contracts are awarded through an e-auction on the Indian Railways E-Procurement System, based on eligibility criteria outlined in their policies.
What actions are taken against violations of advertising policies?
In cases of violations, immediate corrective actions are implemented to ensure compliance with the established guidelines.
