irctc tatkal ticket booking one time password authentication aadhaar based otp mandatory to book tatkal ticket from July 15

IRCTC Update: Aadhaar OTP mandatory for Tatkal ticket booking from today

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has made it mandatory for train travellers to do Aadhaar-based OTP (one-time password) authentication for Tatkal ticket booking. The new rule applies from today, July 15, 2025.

While booking a ticket, a passenger will have to enter the OTP sent to the mobile number linked with their Aadhaar. 

The step is taken to give some relief to passengers; however, it will make it more difficult for agents to book or hold Tatkal tickets.

A passenger can book a Tatkal ticket a day before the train's departure date. The Tatkal bookings open at 11 AM for non-AC classes and 10 AM for AC classes.

Bulk bookings

To prevent bulk bookings during the critical opening period, authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways will not be permitted to book opening-day Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window. 

These changes are being implemented to improve transparency in Tatkal bookings and to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach genuine end users.

The steps are being implemented to ensure fair and transparent access to Tatkal tickets and to safeguard the interests of genuine passengers. The changes will enhance user authentication and reduce misuse of the scheme.