IRCTC has changed the rules for online train ticket booking. Now, users whose IRCTC accounts are not linked with Aadhaar will not be able to book reserved tickets between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
This rule applies only on the day when train ticket bookings open for the first time.
Rule Implemented in Three Phases
Indian Railways has introduced this new system in three phases:
Phase 1 (from December 29): Booking without an Aadhaar-linked account was restricted between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
Phase 2 (from January 5): The restriction period was extended from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Phase 3 (from January 12): After this date, tickets cannot be booked without an Aadhaar-linked account during the restricted hours.
Reason Behind the New Rule
Railways introduced this rule to stop the use of fake IDs, software, bots, and ticket touts.
Earlier, most tickets on opening day were booked by agents using automated systems, which caused problems for genuine passengers.
With this change, only real users will be able to book tickets during the initial hours.
Aadhaar OTP Verification for Booking
Linking your IRCTC account with Aadhaar is now mandatory. During ticket booking, an OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
The ticket will be confirmed only after entering the OTP, which will help prevent fraudulent bookings.
What If Aadhaar Is Not Linked?
Passengers whose IRCTC accounts are not linked to Aadhaar will not be able to book tickets during the restricted opening hours.
They can only book tickets after the deadline.
At present, Railways has not announced any alternative option for such passengers.
Changes in Counter Ticket Booking Rules
Rules have also changed for booking tickets at station reservation counters.
OTP verification is now compulsory, and your mobile number must be linked with Aadhaar.
If you are booking a ticket for another person, you must provide that person’s Aadhaar number and OTP as well.
How to Link Your IRCTC Account with Aadhaar
Follow these steps to link Aadhaar with your IRCTC account:
Log in to the IRCTC website or mobile app
Go to ‘My Profile’
Select ‘Aadhaar KYC’
Enter and update your Aadhaar details
Where to Get Help
If you face problems with ticket booking or OTP verification:
Call IRCTC Helpline: 139
For Aadhaar-related issues, contact UIDAI Helpline: 1947
You can also visit the nearest railway station counter for assistance
Rule Applicable Across India
This Aadhaar authentication system is being implemented across all railway zones in the country.
No matter which route you travel on—Delhi to Mumbai or Chennai to Kolkata—Aadhaar verification will be required.
Ticket Booking Timeline Reduced
Earlier, train tickets could be booked 120 days in advance.
From November 1, 2024, this period has been reduced to 60 days.
Ticket booking for the 60th day opens daily at 8:00 AM.
