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Getting Tatkal tickets for trains is now easier due to recent government policy changes. However, it is mandatory that your IRCTC account must be linked to your Aadhaar number. This will eliminate fraudulent activities as well as increase booking limits for families or habitual fliers. Learn about all the steps involved and its advantages.
Changes in rules concerning Tatkal ticket booking:
Tatkal ticket holders will have restriction to only those passengers having their IRCTC accounts linked and verified with Aadhaar numbers from July 1, 2025.
The use of OTP based Aadhaar verification is now mandatory everywhere whether online using IRCTC website/app or offline counter/with an agent.
Reasons behind requiring Aadhaar linking are:
Elimination of fake booking and misuse by agents: This is done in favor of actual travelers as opposed to ticket brokers through a new rule aimed at curbing such malpractices.
Streamlined ticket booking: There shall be improved odds of success with creating master passenger lists, eliminating the need to fill in details when the ticket is purchased at the last minute.
From a single account, users can purchase 24 tickets monthly: Provided that all passengers have their Aadhaar verified, the booked tickets increased from 12 to 24 per single IRCTC account usage.
Linking Aadhaar - step-by-step guide.
Visit www.irctc.co.in or open the RailOne app.
Use your username and password to log into your account.
Navigate to ‘My Profile’ or ‘Profile’.
Select ‘Aadhaar KYC’ or ‘Link Aadhaar’ options.
Fill in the required details; full name (matching Aadhaar), and 12 digit Aadhaar number.
Consent box (tick)
Choose “Send OTP”/ “Verify Details”
Input the OTP sent to the mobile number associated with Aadhaar on the website/app.
After submitting the OTP, click on “Update” or “Submit.”
Aadhaar linking is confirmed with a success message.
Benefits of Tatkal.
Tatkal saves time when booking tickets.
Due to the rigorous passenger list verification, bookings can be done swiftly which increases the chances of tickets being bought by intended passengers.
Helps prevent ticket fraud or forgery.
Automated refund and identification – immediate processing.
E-transparency and expedited services – streamlining increases trustworthiness of rail service among users.
For Tatkal reservations, is Aadhaar linking compulsory?
It is compulsory. While linking can also be done via the IRCTC app, the website offers a simpler approach.
What might happen if the OTP fails to arrive?
Don't forget to modify your mobile number that is linked with Aadhaar on the UIDAI website or at an Aadhaar center.
