From July 1, Only Aadhaar-Authenticated Users Can Book Tatkal Tickets—Aiming to Curb Misuse and Benefit Genuine Travelers

Aadhaar now required for IRCTC Tatkal to block bots

 Indian Railways is rolling out a sweeping change for travelers who rely on Tatkal tickets for last-minute journeys. Starting July 1, 2025, only users who have authenticated their IRCTC accounts with Aadhaar will be allowed to book Tatkal tickets online or via the IRCTC app. This move comes in response to widespread misuse by agents, bots, and touts who have long dominated the Tatkal booking process, leaving genuine passengers at a disadvantage.

Why Is This Change Happening?

For years, the Tatkal system—designed to facilitate last-minute ticket bookings—has been plagued by fraud and exploitation. Automated bots and unscrupulous agents often book large numbers of tickets within seconds of the booking window opening, making it nearly impossible for ordinary passengers to secure seats. This has led to black market sales and frustration among genuine travelers.

To address these issues, the Railway Ministry issued a circular on June 10, 2025, making Aadhaar authentication mandatory for all Tatkal bookings from July 1. The ministry’s stated goal is to “ensure that the benefits of the Tatkal Scheme are received by the common end users”.

What Does the New Rule Entail?

Indian Railways
From July 1, 2025, Tatkal tickets can only be booked through the IRCTC website or mobile app by users who have completed Aadhaar authentication. This means that every traveler must link their Aadhaar number to their IRCTC account before attempting to book a Tatkal ticket.

But the changes don’t stop there. From July 15, 2025, an additional layer of security will be introduced: Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will be required for every Tatkal booking. This OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked with the user’s Aadhaar, ensuring that only genuine users can complete the transaction.

The new rules also apply to computerized PRS counters and authorized agents. From July 15, Tatkal tickets at counters will require a system-generated OTP, sent to the mobile number provided at the time of booking.

What Are the Restrictions on Agents?

To further level the playing field, Indian Railways has imposed strict restrictions on authorized ticketing agents. These agents will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window for each class:

  • Air-conditioned (AC) classes: Agents cannot book from 10:00 am to 10:30 am
  • Non-air-conditioned (non-AC) classes: Agents cannot book from 11:00 am to 11:30 am

This gives individual travelers a better chance to secure Tatkal tickets before agents and bots swoop in.

What Are the Benefits for Passengers?

Genuine travelers are the primary beneficiaries. By requiring Aadhaar authentication and OTP verification, Indian Railways aims to:

  • Eliminate fraudulent bookings: Fake accounts and bots will be blocked, reducing black market sales.
  • Improve transparency: Every booking will be tied to a verified identity, making it easier to track and prevent misuse.
  • Enhance fairness: With agents restricted during the initial booking window, ordinary passengers have a better shot at securing tickets.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has emphasized that this digital verification step will help “genuine users get confirmed tickets during need”.

New Tatkal Booking Rules

Tatkal ticketing made more accessible for genuine users. - Ashwini Vaishnaw - via x.com 

How to Prepare for the New Rules

Here’s a quick checklist for passengers:

  • Link your Aadhaar to your IRCTC account: Make sure your account is Aadhaar-authenticated before attempting to book Tatkal tickets.
  • Ensure your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar: The OTP for bookings from July 15 will be sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
  • Be ready at the booking window: Tatkal bookings for AC classes open at 10:00 am, and for non-AC classes at 11:00 am.
  • Check for updates: Stay informed about any further changes or clarifications from IRCTC or the Railway Ministry.

What’s the Bigger Picture?

This move is part of a larger push by Indian Railways to modernize its ticketing system and improve the passenger experience. By leveraging digital identity verification, the railways hope to create a more transparent, secure, and user-friendly booking process. The focus is on ensuring that last-minute travelers, who often have urgent needs, can access tickets without being outmaneuvered by agents or automated systems.

What Do Passengers Think?

Initial reactions are mixed but generally positive. Many travelers welcome the changes, hopeful that they will finally have a fair chance at booking Tatkal tickets. However, some have expressed concerns about privacy and the potential for technical glitches during the transition period. Railway officials have assured the public that the new system is designed to protect user data and will be monitored closely for any issues.

Final Thoughts

Indian Railways’ decision to mandate Aadhaar authentication for Tatkal bookings is a bold and necessary step toward curbing fraud and ensuring fair access for all travelers. While the new rules may require some adjustment, the overall benefits—greater transparency, reduced misuse, and a better chance for genuine passengers—make this a positive development for the millions who rely on the Tatkal system every year.