Archive · 11 Jan 2026
IRCTC Extends Aadhaar Booking Window
Indian Railways is making a change to how train tickets can be booked.
Starting on January 12, 2026, only people who have verified their Aadhaar ID with IRCTC will be able to book general reserved tickets on the first day that tickets become available.
These users will be able to book tickets until midnight on that day.
This change is being made to make the ticket booking system stronger and more secure.
The way tickets are booked at computerised PRS counters will not change.
The Ministry of Railways says this step is important to stop people from misusing the e-ticketing system.
Some people support this change because they think it makes the system more secure, while others are worried about privacy issues.
Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users can book tickets till midnight on ARP opening day starting January 12, 2026.
This change aims to make the ticket booking system more robust and secure.
Only Aadhaar-verified users can book general reserved tickets on the ARP opening day.
The procedure for booking tickets at computerised PRS counters remains unchanged.
Cutting-edge technology is being used to prevent misuse of the e-ticketing system.
- Who
- Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users
- What
- Extended booking window for train tickets
- When
- Starting January 12, 2026
- Where
- Indian Railways ticket booking system
- Why
- To enhance system robustness and prevent misuse
Supporters of Aadhaar Verification
Privacy Advocates
Security and Fraud Prevention
Supporters of Aadhaar Verification
Aadhaar verification enhances security and prevents misuse of the ticketing system.
Privacy Advocates
Aadhaar verification raises privacy concerns and could lead to misuse of personal data.
- Date of Change
- January 12, 2026
- Booking Window
- Till midnight on ARP opening day
- Applicable Users
- Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users
- Purpose
- To make the system more robust and prevent misuse
- Technology Used
- Cutting-edge technology to prevent misuse
- Previous Booking Window
- 8 am to 12 noon on the opening day
