From Oct 1, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book online tickets for first 15 mins

New Delhi: The Railway Board is all set to implement new rules from October 1, 2025. The new rule will require passengers to have Aadhaar-verified IRCTC accounts to book general reservation tickets during the first 15 minutes after the booking window opens for any train. It is important to note that the rule, currently applicable only to Tatkal bookings, will now extend to general reservations as well, aiming to curb fraudulent bookings and ensure fair access for genuine travellers.

“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 01.10.2025, during the first 15 minutes of the opening of general reservation, reserved general tickets can be booked through the website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/its app only by Aadhaar-authenticated users,” the government said.

Notably, this is not the first time Aadhaar authentication has been linked with train ticket bookings. In July 2025, Indian Railways mandated Aadhaar verification for IRCTC accounts to book Tatkal tickets online.