India is set to inaugurate its first Vande Bharat Sleeper train this month, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to flag off the service around January 17, 2026. This marks a significant leap in modernizing long-distance overnight rail travel, particularly enhancing connectivity between Eastern India and the Northeast. The inaugural route will link Howrah Junction in West Bengal with Kamakhya Junction (Guwahati) in Assam, covering approximately 968 km in about 14 hours. The new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express trains promise higher speed, enhanced comfort, and improved safety features. Each train will comprise 16 fully air-conditioned coaches, including 11 AC three-tier, four AC two-tier, and one AC first-class coach, accommodating a total of 823 passengers. Key features include ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules, enhanced suspension for smoother rides, reduced noise levels, and disinfectant technology for high sanitation. Safety is prioritized with the Kavach automatic train protection system and emergency talk-back units. Ticket fares are structured similarly to airlines, with prices ranging from ₹960 for a 3AC ticket for journeys up to 400 km, to ₹13,300 for a 1AC ticket for the longest distance of 3,500 km. For the Howrah-Kamakhya route, 3AC fares are around ₹2,300, 2AC around ₹3,000, and 1AC around ₹3,600, inclusive of meals. Notably, only confirmed tickets will be issued, with no Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) or waitlist facility. Passengers can also expect regional cuisine, with Assamese food served on trains from Guwahati and Bengali food on those from Kolkata. The service aims to offer a premium, comfortable, and faster alternative for overnight travel, positioning it as a significant upgrade for Indian Railways.