IRCTC Introduces Aadhaar-Based Authentication for General Reserved Ticket Bookings

New Delhi — Passengers booking general reserved tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile application will now be required to undergo Aadhaar-based authentication during the first 15 minutes of the reservation window.

The Indian Railways has introduced this measure to enhance transparency and curb potential misuse of the online ticketing system. Under the new rule, individuals logging in to book general reserved tickets will need to verify their identity using Aadhaar before proceeding with the booking process.

Officials stated that the step is expected to streamline online reservations, discourage fraudulent practices, and ensure that genuine passengers get fair access to tickets.

The authentication process will be mandatory only in the initial 15-minute period after the reservation window opens, following which bookings can be made as usual. Railway authorities have urged passengers to link their Aadhaar details with their IRCTC accounts in advance to avoid delays during the booking process.