India’s First Private Branded Train to Run as 'Sprite' Tejas Express

In Brief

1. IRCTC has awarded advertising and branding rights for the Lucknow–Delhi Tejas Express to M/s Sprite.
2. The service will operate under the name 'Sprite' Tejas Express for a six-month tenure.
3. This marks the first time an Indian train has been named after a private brand.
4. The initiative aims to boost non-fare revenue while maintaining standard passenger amenities and safety.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has granted advertising and branding rights for the country’s first private branded train to M/s Sprite. Under this agreement, Train Nos. 82501/82502 Lucknow–Delhi–Lucknow Tejas Express will be branded and announced as the 'Sprite' Tejas Express from August 19, 2026, to November 11, 2026.

According to Railway sources, the North Eastern Railway has been instructed to carry out the branded station announcements across originating and en-route stations. Marking a major milestone in non-fare revenue generation, the six-month partnership provides high visibility for the brand while ensuring regular operational schedules, passenger amenities, and safety standards remain unchanged.