12/06/2025
🚆 **Tatkal Booking Alert: Aadhar Verification Now Mandatory for IRCTC & PRS Bookings** 🚆
**Effective July 1, 2025**
Indian Railways is tightening security and ensuring smoother bookings with new Tatkal rules. Whether you book online or at a ticket counter, here's how the new system impacts you:
🔷 **IRCTC Website/App Bookings (Aadhar-based only)**
- From **July 1**: Only users **linked with Aadhar** can book Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC platform.
- Starting **July 15**: Every booking will prompt an **OTP sent to your Aadhar-linked mobile** to authenticate the transaction.
- Pro Tip: Link your Aadhar to IRCTC now to avoid last-minute hiccups.
🔷 **PRS Counter or YTSK Bookings (Non-Aadhar route)**
- Booking without Aadhar?
No problem—but from **July 15**, you'll need **OTP verification on your mobile number** at the time of booking.
- Make sure your phone is charged and handy at the counter!
🔷 **Booking Window Restrictions for Agents**
- To give individual passengers a fair shot, agents **can’t book Tatkal tickets** during these windows:
🕙 **10:00–10:30 AM** → AC Classes
🕚 **11:00–11:30 AM** → Non-AC Classes
- These rules apply to **IRCTC agents and authorized centers.**
🧳 **Why the Change?**
- To stop unauthorized bookings
- To make Tatkal more accessible to genuine travelers
- To introduce **more transparency and digital security** in high-demand ticketing
📣 **Travel Smart**:
Stay ahead—update your IRCTC profile, verify your Aadhar, and spread the word in your circle.
