The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation has announced a key change to its online ticket booking policy. From January 12, 2026, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be allowed to book general reserved tickets online on the first day of the Advance Reservation Period.
Under the new rule, IRCTC accounts that are not linked and verified with Aadhaar will not be able to book reserved tickets online on the opening day of ticket availability for a train.
The Advance Reservation Period is the window during which train tickets can be booked in advance. Demand is typically highest on the first day, especially for long-distance and high-demand routes. As per the updated system, Aadhaar-authenticated users will get exclusive access to book general reserved tickets online through the IRCTC website or mobile app between 8:00am and 4:00pm on the first ARP day.
Users without Aadhaar authentication will still be able to book tickets online from the next day onwards, subject to seat availability. The new rule applies only to online bookings for general reserved tickets on the first day of the ARP.
Bookings made at Passenger Reservation System counters at railway stations will continue as before and can be done using valid identification documents. The change does not affect offline bookings.
IRCTC also noted that Aadhaar authentication for Tatkal ticket bookings has already been mandatory since July 1, 2025. The latest move is aimed at reducing misuse by agents and automated booking tools that often secure a large number of seats within minutes of bookings opening.
Railway authorities said the new policy is designed to give priority to genuine individual passengers during peak booking hours. Aadhaar verification is expected to help limit fraudulent practices and improve fairness in ticket access.
Passengers who regularly book tickets as soon as reservations open are advised to link and authenticate their Aadhaar with their IRCTC account to avoid any disruption. This update is part of Indian Railways’ wider effort to streamline the ticketing process and curb misuse.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
