Revamp of Indian Railways Tatkal Ticket System from July 2025
MAS Team | 16 June 2025
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Indian Railways has introduced significant modifications to its Tatkal ticket system to boost transparency, minimize misuse, and ensure equitable access for all passengers. These reforms include compulsory Aadhaar authentication for online ticket bookings, OTP validation at counters, and restrictions on authorised ticketing agents during high-demand times.
Aadhaar Authentication for Online Bookings
Starting 1 July 2025, booking Tatkal tickets online through the official IRCTC website or mobile app will necessitate Aadhaar authentication. Passengers must link their Aadhaar details to their IRCTC user profiles and complete the verification process to book tickets online. Additionally, an Aadhaar-based OTP verification system will be implemented from 15 July 2025, providing an added layer of security.
Counter Bookings and Agent-Based Reservations
From 15 July 2025, all Tatkal bookings made via the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters or through authorised ticketing agents will require OTP verification. This ensures a uniform and secure booking procedure across all platforms.
Restrictions for Ticketing Agents
To prioritize regular passengers, Indian Railways has introduced a new regulation restricting authorised ticketing agents during the initial 30 minutes of the Tatkal booking window. The stipulated times are as follows:
- AC Classes: Ticket bookings for agents are prohibited between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
- Non-AC Classes: Agents cannot book tickets between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM.
These time restrictions aim to reduce unfair competition and enhance access for individuals booking directly.
A Step-by-Step Booking Guide on IRCTC
1. Login: Access the IRCTC website with your credentials.
2. Journey Details: Input your departure/arrival stations, travel date, and class.
3. Tatkal Selection: Choose the "Tatkal" quota under the options available.
4. Passenger Details: Submit passenger names, preferences, and contact details.
5. Verification: Complete the security and mobile verification steps.
6. Payment Confirmation: Finalize the booking after reviewing details and selecting your payment method.
A confirmation page and virtual reservation message (VRM) will be shared upon successful payment.
FAQs About the New Tatkal Rules
- What’s new in the Tatkal system? Aadhaar authentication, OTP verification, and agent booking restrictions have been implemented to promote fairness.
- When is Aadhaar verification for online bookings mandatory? Starting 1 July 2025.
- Is OTP authentication required at counters? Yes, from 15 July 2025, for both offline and agent-assisted bookings.
- Can agents book during the initial booking window? No, they are restricted during the first 30 minutes after the window opens.
These updates by Indian Railways ensure a smoother, more transparent Tatkal booking experience, catering to the need for fairness across its network.
Dear Investor,
In case of any grievance / complaint :
In case of any grievance / complaint :
- Please contact Compliance Officer Shraddha Mhatre at [email protected] and Phone No. - 91-22-35131664.
- You may also approach CEO Debashis Basu at email- id [email protected] and Phone No. - 91-22-35131664.
