IRCTC’s latest update: Aadhaar authentication made compulsory for Tatkal and online bookings
Indian Railways has introduced a significant modification regarding online train tickets. Starting from October 28th, 2025, only those passengers who are verified using the Aadhaar card will be allowed to purchase train tickets online between 8 to 10 in the morning. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation introduced this modification to improve the transparency level of train tickets.
Why was this new rule made?
As reported by IRCTC, there was an increase in fraudulent bookings/bookings made using a tool or bot in the past few months. There were agents who managed to book hundreds of tickets in a span of seconds, thus delaying other passengers to get confirmed tickets.
Now, Aadhaar-based verification will not only ensure that tickets are reserved only for verified passengers but will also create transparency in the system.
How to Connect IRCTC Login to Aadhaar
- IRCTC Website
- Go to irctc.co.in. Now you can log in
- Now, go to “My Profile” and click “Authenticate Aadhaar.”
- Please enter your Aadhaar number or Virtual ID.
- Now, enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
From now onwards, your account will get Aadhaar verified. Then you’ll be able to book tickets between 8 am to 10 am.
Modification in Tatkal Tickets
The Railways have made Aadhaar authentication compulsory for Tatkal train tickets from July 1, 2025. OTP-based authentication has been introduced since July 15. The implication is that only those who have an account registered to their Aadhaar are allowed to book Tatkal train tickets.
Additions to ‘General Ticket Booking’ Section
Starting from October 1, 2025, the first 15 minutes of general booking will only be reserved for users who are Aadhaar verified. Unverified users will not get a chance to book tickets in these initial minutes. The aim of Indian Railways remains crystal clear. They want to ensure that "the system remains clean."
The offline tickets will not be affected.
These guidelines are applicable only to the official website and mobile app of IRCTC. Passengers who purchase tickets from PRS counting centers or other agents are not affected.
Important advice for passengers
Those who use online platforms to book train tickets are advised to immediately make their IRCTC account-linked to Aadhaar. In fact, this will make reservation easier for them, ensure that their account remains safe, and mitigate any negative effects that may arise due to changes in the rules.
