Indian Railways has introduced a major change in the online ticket booking system. This new rule will come into effect from October 1, 2025.
From this date, whenever general ticket booking for any train opens, only passengers with Aadhaar authentication will be allowed to book tickets during the first 15 minutes.
This rule will apply to both the IRCTC website and mobile app. According to Railways, this step is aimed at helping genuine passengers and preventing fake or unauthorized bookings.
Facility for Passengers at PRS Counters
The Railway Ministry has clarified that there will be no change in the process of getting general reservation tickets from PRS counters. The rules remain the same.
Also, the restriction on authorized railway agents will continue—they cannot make bookings for the first 10 minutes after ticket booking opens.
Railways believes this new system will make the process more transparent, reduce the role of brokers, and give common passengers a fair chance of getting seats.
Aadhaar Verification in Tatkal Ticket Booking
Earlier, Railways had also made Aadhaar verification mandatory for Tatkal ticket booking. This rule has been in effect since July 1, 2025.
Under it, Tatkal tickets can only be booked through the IRCTC website or mobile app after Aadhaar verification.
Additionally, Railways has put restrictions on agents—they cannot book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes after booking opens.
