If you travel by Indian Railways, then some changes have come into effect from July 15. Railways have taken a big decision to make Tatkal ticket booking transparent and secure.
From today, Aadhaar based OTP (One-Time Password) verification has been made mandatory for Tatkal ticket booking. This rule will apply to both online and offline ticket bookers. That is, on booking Tatkal tickets through IRCTC website or mobile app, now the passenger will have to enter the OTP sent to the mobile number linked to Aadhaar. This rule is applicable to Tatkal booking of all AC and Non-AC categories.
According to the news, Tatkal tickets for AC classes (1A, 2A, 3A, CC, EC) can be booked from 10:00 am a day prior to the journey, while Tatkal tickets for non-AC classes (Sleeper, Second Class) can be booked from 11:00 am a day prior to the journey.
Aadhaar OTP is also required for booking tickets from counter and agent
After the new rule implemented from Tuesday, even if a passenger books a Tatkal ticket through a computerized PRS counter or an authorized agent, Aadhaar OTP verification will be necessary. The passenger will have to provide his Aadhaar number and registered mobile number. The ticket will be issued only after OTP verification. To book Tatkal tickets on IRCTC, your profile must be authenticated with Aadhaar. If this is not done, you will not be able to book tickets.
This is how you can link your IRCTC account with Aadhaar
- Log on to the IRCTC website or IRCTC Rail Connect App
- Go to the My Account section here
- After this click on Authenticate User and complete the process
Booking time changed for authorized agents
IRCTC has changed the booking time on authorized agents from 1 July 2025. Authorized agents will no longer be able to book AC class tickets between 10:00 am and 10:30 am. Similarly, non-AC class bookings will not be possible between 11:00 am and 11:30 am.
Railway fares have increased from this month
Indian Railways has increased the fares of premium and special trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Humsafar, Duronto, Mahamana, Gatiman, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, AC Vistadome, Anubhuti from July 1.
