Aadhaar Authentication Made Mandatory for Tatkal Ticket Booking from July 1
In a major policy move aimed at curbing misuse and increasing transparency, Indian Railways has mandated Aadhaar authentication for Tatkal ticket bookings on the IRCTC website and mobile app starting 1 July 2025.
As per a directive issued by the Ministry of Railways on 10 June 2025, users will need to complete Aadhaar verification to book Tatkal tickets. Additionally, from 15 July 2025, an Aadhaar-linked one-time password (OTP) verification will be introduced as a second layer of authentication. This is part of a broader digital upgrade to combat fraudulent practices and ensure fair access for genuine passengers.
“From 01-07-2025, Tatkal bookings through IRCTC’s website and app will be allowed only for users who have completed Aadhaar authentication,” the ministry stated.
To further prevent misuse, authorised railway agents will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of availability. Specifically:
- AC class bookings: Agents restricted from 10:00 am to 10:30 am
- Non-AC class bookings: Agents restricted from 11:00 am to 11:30 am
The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been instructed to implement the required system upgrades to enforce these rules across all zones.
A senior railway official said these steps are designed to deter touts and bots, and to make last-minute travel options more accessible to regular users.
Launched in 1997, the Tatkal scheme provides urgent travel options on short notice but has long faced issues of exploitation by scalpers and agents. The new rules aim to restore its intended purpose by enhancing identity verification and limiting automated bulk bookings.
This initiative also aligns with the government’s larger push toward Aadhaar-based integration across public services.
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