Indian Railway Terminology for Dummies

We Indians are used to the official gobbledygook.. i.e, official words, jargons used spoken and used in Govt communications. For a first timer, it sounds all Greek and Latin. But fret not, you’ll be a seasoned user with hands-on experience. And you’ll be suprised to speak in their tongues. But, till then you’re in a state of confusion, or in limbo!

Indian Railway – Terminologies
Of the different Govt agencies, Indian Railways uses far too many generic words. And to find the real meaning, you need a separate glossary.

Recently I had a bad experience when I checked my  journey status on the day of the trip. I found GNWL next to my booking status. After few desperate moment, I realized the real meaning. No Fuc*** Place. Why can’t they use a simple explanation. Maybe, in brackets.

RAC – Reservation Against Cancellation
(RAC means, you’ll don’t have a berth, only a seat. RAC passengers are given side seats. And if it’s your lucky day, TTR might allot a berth as per the vacancies.)

GNWL – General Waiting list ( You are out of the list) Better luck next time.

Berth – Sleeping pad. After 9 PM or so, it’s all your’s

Talkal : Origin Hindi (Few seats are allotted for last minute booking. Talkal opens one day prior to your date of journey. For instance, if you’re traveling on 8th, then talkal opens on 7th) You need all the luck on your side to book a online ticket through talkal. Reasons, heavy traffic to IRTC site. )

Additional Links:

Indian Railways RAC and Waitlists concepts explained ( http://www.indiamike.com)

StartUp Mantra Trivandrum

STARTUP MANTRA – Poster
  • Do you have an idea to share, or a business idea nested in your mind? 
  • What are the formalities (licences) required to start a business in Kerala?
  • How do you raise capital for a new business? 

Having a business idea is one, but starting is an entirely new ball game. Also, there’re are many other impediments to starting a business in Kerala.

If you’re looking for a forum to get answers or network with like-minded people, then Startup Mantra is for you. This Startup meeting scheduled in Trivandrum is open for all, from wannabe biz entrepreneurs, to angel investors to startups.

Note to attendees:
After attending the class, pls share your learning, insights to people like me. You can share through a PPT and put it on SlideShare , or write a blog post, or upload the video on Youtube.

Thanks in advance to all the attendees and well wishers of Startup Mantra in Trivandrum