Indian Railways is set to implement major changes to Tatkal ticket booking rules starting July 1, 2025. As per the new norms, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for booking Tatkal tickets through IRCTC’s website or mobile app.

From July 15, online Tatkal booking will also require OTP verification sent to the Aadhaar-linked mobile number. In a significant move to curb ticket touting, agents will not be allowed to book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of opening.

This initiative is aimed at improving transparency and eliminating fraudulent bookings done via bots and software by touts and agents.

Travelers must link their Aadhaar number to their IRCTC account in advance. Without OTP verification, bookings will not be processed. Similar authentication will also be required at physical ticket counters starting July 15.

These rules apply only to Tatkal bookings; normal and waitlisted tickets are not affected.

If passengers face any issues with Aadhaar linkage or OTP, they can call the IRCTC helpline at 139, or UIDAI helpline 1947 for Aadhaar-related problems.

These rules will be applicable across India in all zones wherever Tatkal booking is available, ensuring a uniform system.