Kolkata/New Delhi, Apr 3 (IANS): Members of India's World Cup-winning team will be given lifetime complimentary passes to travel by air-conditioned first class, the railway ministry announced Sunday.

The passes will be available to the players along with one companion for unlimited free travel in the country, the ministry said in a press statement.

"In recognition of the spectacular achievement of India in the World Cup Cricket tournament, Ministry of Railways has decided to give lifetime 1st AC complimentary passes to the members of the winning Indian cricket team. The passes will be available to players along with one companion for unlimited travel from anywhere to anywhere in the country on Indian Railways," the statement said.

Congratulating the team after their win Saturday, Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee had appealed to the central government to declare Monday a national holiday to celebrate the achievement.

"Our leader Mamata Banerjee has appealed to the union government through Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee to declare Monday as a national holiday so that whole of India can celebrate this win," Trinamool Congress and Minister of State for Shipping Mukul Ray told IANS in Kolkata.

India defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at Mumbai's Wankhede stadium to win the cricket World Cup for the second time in 28 years.