New Delhi: Union Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav has started his speech on fifth Rail Budget today. With general elections due next year, it's expected to be a populist budget.

Earlier this month, Lalu had indicated a people-friendly budget and it would be made keeping the common man in mind.

It's been believed that there may be no increase in passenger and freight fares for the fifth consecutive year.

This time, Lalu is expected to address complaints relating to rail services by providing better catering and amenities. Some concessions are likely for senior citizens, women, students and sportspersons.

Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry has asked the Rail Ministry to set aside Rs 9000 crore to provide for a possible impact of the 6th Pay Committee recommendations.

The Railways had asked for a budgetary support of more than Rs 13000 crore for the next fiscal but at a time when the government has other social sector priorities like health and education, sources say the finance ministry has allocated just Rs 7100 crore for the Railways.

People affected with HIV/AIDS may get travel concessions and even access to medical facilities at certain stations.

Lalu's home state Bihar could be the biggest beneficiary in the budget by bagging the maximum number of rail projects.

The budget is expected to strengthen rail services in some less developed areas, including the North-East, that may get new lines.

Internet facilities on some premier trains are likely to be introduced.

Model stations are being planned to be developed besides upgrading the railway stations in New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Patna into world-class stations.

Source : Agencies