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‘Sprite Tejas Express’ marks a first for Indian Railways

While Indian Railways has previously permitted exterior advertising wraps on train coaches as a non-fare revenue initiative, this is the first time a brand name has been integrated into the train’s official identity.

Published

August 14, 2026

M4G Bureau

In a first for Indian Railways, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a branded train by renaming its Lucknow-Delhi-Lucknow Tejas Express as the ‘Sprite Tejas Express’, following the award of train branding rights to beverage brand Sprite.

According to The Hindu, the branding rights have been awarded to Sprite for a period of six months. As part of the agreement, Train 82501/82502 will be officially announced as the ‘Sprite Tejas Express’ at originating as well as en route stations from August 19, 2026, to November 11, 2026.

The move marks the first instance of a train in India being named after a commercial brand. While Indian Railways has previously permitted exterior advertising wraps on train coaches as a non-fare revenue initiative, this is the first time a brand name has been integrated into the train’s official identity.

The fully air-conditioned Tejas Express, operated by IRCTC, was flagged off by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in December 2021 as India’s first private train. The service offers modern onboard amenities, including food and beverage services, infotainment, and the option for group bookings, allowing passengers to reserve an entire AC Chair Car coach for corporate events, social functions and other group travel.

Although the train is operated by IRCTC, the corporation pays Indian Railways hauling charges for the use of railway infrastructure, including tracks and stations. The branding initiative reflects the continued exploration of innovative advertising and revenue-generation opportunities across India’s transport infrastructure while giving brands access to a highly visible, high-frequency public platform.