SRINAGAR: Indian Railways has announced that only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be permitted to book Tatkal tickets via the IRCTC website and mobile application starting July 1, 2025. The move aims to curb misuse and ensure equitable access to tickets for genuine passengers.
According to the Ministry of Railways, further security measures will come into effect from July 15, 2025, mandating OTP-based identity verification for Tatkal bookings made both online and at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters, including through authorised agents.
To prevent booking malpractice during peak demand hours, Indian Railways has also barred authorised agents from booking Tatkal tickets in the first 30 minutes of the booking window. For AC classes, this restriction applies between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM, while for non-AC classes, it will be in force from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
A press release issued by the Ministry stated that these changes are intended to enhance transparency, improve passenger convenience, and safeguard the interests of everyday travellers. The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been directed to implement the necessary system changes and notify all Zonal Railways accordingly.
Passengers are advised to link their Aadhaar numbers with their IRCTC accounts well in advance to avoid any inconvenience during the new booking protocols.
