Indian Railways Introduces Aadhaar-Based Authentication for Early Online Reservations

The Ministry of Railways has announced a new measure to ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach genuine passengers and are not misused by unscrupulous elements. With effect from 01st October, 2025 during the first 15 minutes of opening of general reservation, reserved general tickets can only be booked through the website or mobile application of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) by Aadhaar authenticated users.

There will be no change in the timings of booking reserved tickets through computerized PRS counters of Indian Railways. Similarly, the existing restriction of 10 minutes on authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways will continue, under which agents are not allowed to book tickets during the initial period of general reservation opening.

To facilitate the implementation of this measure, the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC has been directed to make necessary system modifications and inform all zonal railways. The Ministry of Railways has advised passengers to complete their Aadhaar authentication in advance to avail of this facility.