
The indian Railways has rolled out a significant update to its ticket booking process, effective october 1, 2025. Aadhaar authentication is now mandatory during the first 15 minutes of general reservation ticket bookings on the irctc platform. Here’s a breakdown of this change in a concise listicle format:
1. Aadhaar Becomes the Key to Your train Journey
Starting october 1, 2025, passengers booking general reservation tickets through the irctc website or mobile app must authenticate their Aadhaar number during the initial 15-minute window of ticket availability. This move aims to streamline bookings and curb fraudulent activities.
2. Why the First 15 Minutes?
The first 15 minutes of ticket booking are critical, as seats for popular routes sell out quickly. By requiring Aadhaar authentication during this period, indian Railways seeks to ensure genuine passengers get priority and reduce the use of bots or unauthorized agents.
3. How Will Aadhaar Authentication Work?
Users will need to link their Aadhaar number to their irctc account. During the booking process, a one-time password (OTP) sent to the Aadhaar-registered mobile number or a biometric verification may be required to confirm identity.
4. Enhancing Security, Reducing Scams
This rule targets touts and black-market ticket sellers who exploit the system. Aadhaar authentication ensures only verified individuals can book tickets, making the process fairer and more transparent.
5. What Happens After 15 Minutes?
Post the initial 15-minute window, Aadhaar authentication may not be mandatory, allowing more flexibility for users. However, indian Railways encourages linking Aadhaar for all bookings to enhance security.
6. How to Prepare for the Change
To avoid last-minute hassles, passengers should link their Aadhaar with their irctc account before october 1. Ensure your mobile number is updated with uidai for OTP-based authentication.
7. A Step Toward wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital India
This initiative aligns with India’s push for wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital governance, leveraging Aadhaar to create a secure and efficient booking ecosystem for millions of rail passengers.
This change reflects indian Railways’ commitment to modernizing ticketing while prioritizing user authenticity.
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