Archive · 19 Dec 2025
Indian Railways Extends Aadhaar Booking Window
Indian Railways has decided to extend the time during which only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book train tickets online on the first day of ticket sales.
Initially, this was only for the first 15 minutes, then extended to 8 AM to 10 AM, and now it will be from 8 AM to 12 AM (midnight).
This change is being made to stop people who might be misusing the system and to make sure that real passengers get the benefits.
The change will happen in steps and won't affect how tickets are booked at the computerised counters.
Indian Railways extends Aadhaar-authenticated booking window for general reserved tickets on the opening day of ARP.
Booking window expanded to 8 AM to 12 AM (00:00 hours) in a phased manner.
Aim is to curb misuse by touts and ensure benefits to genuine passengers.
No change in the procedure for booking tickets at computerised PRS counters.
Announcement made in a letter dated December 18, 2025, to all Principal Chief Commercial Managers (PCCMs).
- Who
- Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users
- What
- Extension of train ticket booking window on the opening day of Advance Reservation Period (ARP)
- When
- Phased implementation, announced on December 18, 2025
- Where
- Indian Railways, IRCTC website or app
- Why
- To curb misuse by touts and ensure benefits to genuine passengers
- Affected Users
- Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users
- Current Booking Window
- 8 AM to 12 AM (00:00 hours)
- Purpose
- Curb misuse by touts and ensure benefits to genuine passengers
- Implementation
- Phased manner
- Announcement Date
- December 18, 2025
- Affected Tickets
- General reserved tickets on the opening day of Advance Reservation Period (ARP)
- Booking Procedure at PRS Counters
- No change
