• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

From October 1, 2025, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for booking of reserved rail tickets online in the first 15 minutes only till the opening of passenger reservation system counters. The Ministry of Railways revealed the decision in a circular dated September 15, 2025, to reduce ticket touting and balance tickets for real passengers.

Right now this early booking limitation is applicable only to Tatkal tickets but soon general booking from IRCTC website and app will also come under its ambit.

Why This Rule Was Introduced

The government said the move would prevent touts from making bulk bookings and also make the reservation system more transparent.

“With a view to ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach the common end user and are not misused by unscrupulous elements, it has been decided that with effect from 1.10.2025… reserved general tickets can be booked through IRCTC/its app only by Aadhaar authenticated users,” the ministry stated.

ALSO READ: Amazon Great Indian Festival 2025: Best Deals On Smartphones, Laptops, TVs, And Refrigerators

How the New Rule Works

Here’s a brief explanation of how would the new Aadhaar-based booking process work:

First 15 minutes: Only Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users can book tickets online.

After 15 minutes: Ticket booking opens for all registered users.

PRS Counters: No change; offline ticket bookings continue as usual.

Authorized Agents: Continue to face the 10-minute restriction already in place.

This is targeted particularly at high demand trains and routes, where tickets can be sold in a matter of minutes after opening.

What About Tatkal Tickets?

The system isn’t entirely new. The Aadhaar stipulation, similar to the 15-minute Aadhaar rule applicable on Tatkal bookings earlier. It was so successful in curbing touting that the ministry extended it to general bookings too.

How to Link Aadhaar With Your IRCTC Account

To avail this early booking advantage, customers are required to have an Aadhaar linked with their IRCTC account on or before October 1st, 2025.

Step-by-step process:

1. Log into your IRCTC account.

2. Go to ‘My Profile’ section.

3. Select ‘Aadhaar Authentication’.

4. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.

5. Verify using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

6. Ensure that your IRCTC profile details are consistent with that of the Aadhaar to prevent verification failure.

ALSO READ: Samsung One UI 8.5 Leak Hints At New “Private Display” Feature, Likely Debuting With Galaxy S26 Ultra

What It Means for Passengers

This shift has big implications for frequent travelers:

- Early access to high-demand tickets if Aadhaar is linked.

- Reduced competition from touts during the critical opening minutes.

- A smoother and more transparent booking experience.

Passengers who haven’t linked their Aadhaar can still book tickets, but only after the initial 15 minute slot ends.

Final Takeaway

A a part of online booking, everyone from October 1, 2025 will need to obtain Aadhaar authenticate for buying train tickets. Aadhaar card linking is to ensure that passengers don’t miss out on popular trains. We have made significant progress in establishing a fairer and more secure reservation system for legitimate passengers with this governmental intervention.