Government of India, in a major move has tightened the Indian Railways ticketing process. Since it has announced new booking regulations for its online portal, IRCTC. From now, passengers will need to have their Aadhaar details verified to reserve tickets during specific time windows. The initiative aims to ensure transparency and curb the misuse of the booking system by touts and automated agents.
New Booking Windows and Rules:
According to the new rules, only passengers who have completed Aadhaar-based verification on IRCTC will be allowed to book reserved train tickets during the first 10 minutes after online reservations open. After this month slowly the restriction will extend further to between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m, which will be the first two hours after the booking window opens in which only verified users will be able to make reservations through the IRCTC website or mobile application.
Importantly, these changes apply only to online bookings. Therefore passengers purchasing tickets directly at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters will not be affected by this rule.
Why the Change Was Needed?
The Ministry of Railways has clarified that the decision is part of its ongoing effort to ensure that tickets go to genuine travellers, rather than being hoarded by booking agents. Over the years, misuse of automated tools and fake accounts has caused frustration for regular passengers who often fail to secure seats during peak hours.
By introducing Aadhaar-linked authentication, the Railways aims to reduce fraudulent activities and create a more equitable ticketing system. The system will help verify the identity of each user, thereby making it more difficult for multiple accounts to operate under false names.
Aadhaar Verification for Tatkal and Counter Bookings!
This is not the first time Aadhaar authentication has been introduced to the ticketing process. Earlier in 2025, the Railways had already implemented Aadhaar-based verification for Tatkal bookings. From July 1, only verified users can book Tatkal tickets online, and from July 15, OTP-based Aadhaar validation became mandatory for tickets purchased through authorized agents or counters.
What Passengers Should Do Now?
Passengers are advised to link their Aadhaar number with their IRCTC account and complete the verification process as soon as possible. Aadhaar authentication will ensure smooth booking, especially during high-demand periods when early access is restricted to verified users.
A Push Toward Secure and Fair Travel:
The new Aadhaar rule represents a broader shift toward transparency and fairness in the Indian Railways’ reservation ecosystem. While the step may pose minor challenges for those yet to link their Aadhaar, it promises a more secure, transparent, and passenger-friendly system in the long run.
