Indian Railways is announcing a major change in the Tatkal ticket booking system, requiring Aadhaar card verification from July 1, 2025. This is intended to reduce abuse of the system, increase accountability, and ensure that actual passengers gain from the Tatkal system. Let’s delve into the details and implications of the new rules so you can better plan and adapt.
Tatkal Ticket Bookers’ Aadhaar Verification Requirement
Starting July 1, 2025, only those passengers who have verified their Aadhaar will be able to book Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC site or mobile application. Users will have to link their Aadhaar numbers with their IRCTC user IDs and undergo authentication to access the Tatkal quota. This modification is aimed at closing loopholes in user verification and fraudulent bookings that have plagued the system in recent years.
OTP Authentication for All Tatkal Bookings
New security measures will take effect on July 15, 2025, including OTP-based Aadhaar verification. It will be mandatory to use OTP authentication for booking tickets via the Internet, at a computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter, or through an authorized ticketing agent. Participants must provide a mobile number and tie it to their account to receive the OTP. This prevents transaction misuse, as only the individual who made the booking can complete the transaction.
No Tatkal Booking Without Aadhaar
The updated regulations are clear: Aadhaar is compulsory for Tatkal ticket bookings. Passengers who have not linked their Aadhaar with their IRCTC account will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets starting July 1. The Ministry of Railways is appealing to everyone to complete their Aadhaar verification as soon as possible to avoid last-minute rush and hassle.
Restrictions on Agent Bookings to Prevent Bulk Purchases
In an attempt to curb misuse of the Tatkal ticket system, Indian Railways has issued new rules for authorized ticketing agents. They will not be permitted to make bookings for Tatkal tickets in the first half hour of the booking window—10:00 to 10:30 AM for AC classes and 11:00 to 11:30 AM for non-AC classes. This is done to prevent several agents from making bulk bookings.
Why Will These Changes Be Implemented?
There have been numerous instances where the Tatkal scheme is misused by agents and touts, which leads to authentic users losing out on the benefits. These issues seem to be on the rise, as Indian Railways data indicates millions of accounts are being reported for suspicious activity. On the other hand, trust and transparency can be restored with Aadhaar-based authentication alongside OTP verification, ensuring that Tatkal benefits the users who truly require them.
How to Get Ready: Actions for Travelers
- Link your Aadhaar number with an active IRCTC account.
- Make sure that your mobile number is both updated and linked with your Aadhaar.
- Complete the Aadhaar authentication on the IRCTC system by the deadline of July 1, 2025.
- Be prepared to receive OTPs during booking starting July 15, 2025.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of Aadhaar-linked authentication for Tatkal ticket reservation changes the Indian Railways policy for user verification and system trust dramatically. The mandatory use of Aadhaar with OTP verification seeks to streamline the booking process for genuine passengers. It is important for travelers to proactively update their accounts to ensure efficient travel arrangements for the upcoming summer season.
