Archive · 1 Aug 2025
Aadhaar Mandatory for Tatkal Bookings on IRCTC
To book urgent 'Tatkal' train tickets online, you now must link your Aadhaar card to your IRCTC account.
This confirms who you are.
Also, ticket agents can't book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of booking opening.
This makes booking easier for regular people.
If booking at counters or through agents, you'll get a code on your phone to enter, so you need your Aadhaar linked.
This update is for fair booking.
Aadhaar linking is now mandatory for IRCTC users booking Tatkal tickets.
Agents are prohibited from booking Tatkal tickets for the first 30 minutes.
OTP authentication is required for Tatkal bookings at counters and through agents.
Users can link Aadhaar on the IRCTC website under the 'My Account' section.
Linking Aadhaar allows for priority access when booking Tatkal tickets.
- Who
- Railway authorities and IRCTC users.
- What
- New rules for Tatkal ticket booking, mandating Aadhaar linking and OTP verification.
- When
- Announced recently.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To reduce misuse and improve booking equity.
User experience
Government
Convenience vs. Fairness
User experience
Some users may find the new Aadhaar-linking process inconvenient.
Government
The government aims to reduce misuse and improve equity in the system.
- Requirement
- Aadhaar linking for online Tatkal bookings.
- Restriction
- Agents can't book for the initial 30 minutes.
- Authentication
- OTP required for counter and agent bookings.
- Website
- IRCTC
Sources
'Why this VVVVIP TREATMENT?': Analyst after Ashwini Vaishnaw confirms exclusive Railways portal for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha MPs
Aadhaar-linked IRCTC account holders to get priority in tatkal ticket booking? Railway Minister responds