New rules restrict agent bookings; OTP-based identity checks to be enforced across platforms by July 15
Published Jun 11, 2025 | 8:21 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 11, 2025 | 8:21 PM
aadhaar authentication mandatory for tatkal bookings on IRCTC website and app
Synopsis: From July 1, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for Tatkal bookings on the IRCTC website and app. To prioritise individuals, agents are barred from booking during the first 30 minutes. From July 15, OTP-based verification will be required for all Tatkal bookings, including at PRS counters. The move targets misuse by bots and aims to ensure fair access for genuine passengers
In a bid to curb misuse and ensure fair access to Tatkal train tickets, the Indian Railways has announced sweeping changes to its booking system, effective from July 1, 2025.
As per the new guidelines, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be allowed to book Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website and mobile app.
Additionally, to prioritise individual users, travel agents and authorised booking agencies will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of opening.
For AC classes, agents can begin bookings only after 10:30 am, and for non-AC classes, after 11:30 am. The exclusive booking windows for individuals will be 10:00–10:30 am for AC and 11:00–11:30 am for non-AC categories.
Starting July 15, all Tatkal bookings—whether online or at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters—will require OTP-based identity verification, linked to a mobile number.
This will apply to bookings made by passengers directly or through authorised agents. Passengers booking tickets at railway counters must furnish a mobile number and verify an OTP to complete the reservation.
The new measures are aimed at enhancing transparency and reducing the influence of ticketing bots. According to the Railways, over 2.5 crore suspicious IRCTC user IDs linked to the use of such automated software have already been blocked in the past six months.
While Aadhaar authentication is mandatory for online Tatkal bookings, non-Aadhaar users can continue to book Tatkal tickets through PRS counters and authorised travel agents with mobile OTP verification after July 15.
The Ministry of Railways emphasized that these reforms are designed to ensure that the benefits of Tatkal ticketing reach genuine individual passengers, rather than being cornered by agents or software-driven scalpers.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
