Indian Railways Advisor A.K. Nigam, in turn, agreed that he would examine a formal proposal to this effect from NACO, added Bachani.

The meeting was attended by representatives of ministries of food and public distribution, road and transport, railways, law and justice, health and family welfare, besides an advocate representing Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium.

The meeting was convened on a direction by the apex court to examine the feasibility of according better facilities and other crucial supports to the people afflicted with the fatal diseases.

Bachani also told the court that several states and union territories, including Bihar, Karnataka and Chandigarh, have decided to provide free transport facilities to PLHAs in their respective territories, while some other states are examining the proposal.

On a recommendation by the court in July this year, the government has already decided to provide Antyodaya Annayojna cards to poor PLHAs, making them eligible for getting subsidised ration.