Archive · 18 Dec 2025
Railways Introduce Aadhaar OTP for Tatkal Bookings
The Indian Railways in the Malda division have started a new system where people booking last-minute tatkal tickets need to verify their identity using Aadhaar and a one-time password (OTP).
This is being done to make sure that only real passengers can book these tickets and to stop people from misusing the system.
The OTP will be sent to the passenger's registered mobile number.
This change is happening in stages and is currently available on some specific trains.
The goal is to make the booking process more transparent and fair for everyone who needs to travel at the last minute.
Indian Railways introduces Aadhaar-based OTP verification for tatkal bookings in the Malda division.
The system is being rolled out in phases and is currently available on select trains.
Passengers must complete Aadhaar-based authentication via OTP sent to their registered mobile numbers.
The initiative aims to curb misuse, eliminate touts, and improve transparency in the booking system.
The Malda division appeals to passengers to cooperate with the new initiative for improved public convenience and digital transparency.
- Who
- Indian Railways, Malda division
- What
- Introduction of Aadhaar-based OTP verification for tatkal bookings
- When
- Implementation has commenced, phased rollout
- Where
- Malda division, select trains
- Why
- To enhance transparency, curb misuse, and eliminate touts
- Affected Trains
- 12254 Bhagalpur–SMVT Bengaluru Anga Express, 12367 Bhagalpur–Anand Vihar Terminal Vikramshila Express, 12335 Bhagalpur–Lokmanya Tilak Superfast Express, 22948 Bhagalpur–Surat Express, 12345 Saraighat Express, 12343 Darjeeling Mail, and other notified trains
- Implementation Phase
- Phased rollout
- Verification Method
- Aadhaar-based OTP
- Purpose
- Enhance transparency, curb misuse, eliminate touts
- Passenger Requirement
- Aadhaar-based authentication via OTP