New Tatkal Booking Rules: Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory from 15 July 2025
From 15 July 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will be mandatory for booking online Tatkal tickets via the IRCTC website and app. The move aims to promote fair and transparent booking practices.
For Tatkal tickets booked at PRC counters or by authorised agents, OTP verification will be done using the mobile number provided at the time of booking.
To prevent misuse, IRCTC agents will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window:
- 10:00–10:30 AM for AC classes
- 11:00–11:30 AM for non-AC classes
The Centre for Railways Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been instructed to implement these changes and inform all departments accordingly.