Indian Railways has announced a new policy that will change how passengers book tickets online. Starting October 1, 2025, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for booking reserved general tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile app during the first 15 minutes after the reservation window opens.
According to a release by the Ministry of Railways, this move aims to ensure genuine users receive the benefits of the reservation system whilst preventing misuse by unauthorised individuals. The ministry clarified that the existing schedule for booking general reserved tickets at PRS counters remains unchanged.
Restrictions on Agents Remain Unchanged
The ministry also confirmed that the current 10-minute restriction on authorised railway ticketing agents for opening day bookings will continue without any modification. This means agents will not be allowed to book tickets during the first 10 minutes of the reservation window, giving individuals a fairer chance at securing seats.
Aadhaar Already Mandatory for Tatkal Tickets
The latest rule follows closely after Indian Railways made Aadhaar authentication compulsory for Tatkal ticket bookings, effective July 1, 2025. Under this directive, passengers must complete Aadhaar verification to book Tatkal tickets exclusively via IRCTC’s website or mobile application.
The same circular also placed restrictions on authorised railway ticketing agents. The agents cannot book first-day Tatkal tickets during the opening 30 minutes of bookings. This limitation is effective from 10.00 am to 10.30 am for air-conditioned classes and from 11.00 am to 11.30 am for non-air-conditioned classes, the directive stated.