IRCTC Introduces Aadhaar-Only Booking Rule for First Day of Train Ticket Sales

From January 12, Indian Railways has introduced a new rule for online train ticket bookings through IRCTC. Under this change, only users with Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC accounts can book general reserved tickets on the first day tickets open for a train. The move is aimed at ensuring fair access for genuine passengers during peak booking periods.

What Is the Advance Reservation Period (ARP)?

The Advance Reservation Period, or ARP, is the window during which train tickets become available for booking in advance. This is usually when demand is at its highest, especially for long-distance routes, holidays, and popular trains. Tickets often sell out within minutes on the first day of ARP, making it a crucial time for passengers.

What Has Changed From January 12?

Under the new rule, online booking of general reserved tickets on the first day of ARP is restricted to Aadhaar-authenticated users only.

• Aadhaar-verified users can book tickets online from 8 am to midnight on the first ARP day.
• Users without Aadhaar authentication can book tickets from the next day onwards, depending on seat availability.
• The rule applies to bookings made via the IRCTC website and mobile app.

Does This Affect Tatkal or Offline Bookings?

The change applies only to online general reserved ticket bookings on the first ARP day.

• Tatkal tickets were already restricted to Aadhaar-authenticated users, so there is no new change here.
• Offline bookings at PRS counters in railway stations remain unchanged and can still be made using valid identification.

Why Has This Rule Been Introduced?

Indian Railways has introduced this measure to reduce misuse of the booking system. Automated software and agents often block tickets within minutes of booking opening, leaving genuine passengers at a disadvantage. Aadhaar authentication is expected to limit such practices and ensure that individual travellers get a fair chance to book tickets during high-demand periods.

What Should Passengers Do Now?

Passengers who usually book tickets as soon as reservations open should link and authenticate their Aadhaar with their IRCTC account. This will help avoid booking issues on the first day of ARP. The process can be completed online through the IRCTC platform.

Read more: Indian Railways Plans 52 Reforms in 2026, Says Minister Vaishnaw.

Conclusion

The new Aadhaar-based booking rule is designed to make the ticketing process fairer and more transparent for passengers. While it may require a small adjustment for some users, Aadhaar authentication is likely to improve access to tickets during peak booking times and reduce system misuse in the long run. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.