Delhi Railways Mandates Aadhaar Link For Early IRCTC Ticket Booking
From 1 October 2025, online ticketing through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will undergo a significant shift. Passengers who have linked their Aadhaar with their IRCTC account will gain a 15-minute early access window to book general tickets before the system opens to others. This policy marks a decisive attempt to increase transparency, reduce black marketing, and prioritise genuine travellers.
Officials from the Railway Ministry confirmed that Aadhaar verification will now be central to online ticket booking. Those without Aadhaar linkage will face restrictions during the first quarter of an hour when general booking opens. The move is designed to discourage bulk ticket hoarding, a practice that has long disadvantaged ordinary passengers. By introducing this buffer, the Railways hopes to ensure that tickets go to individuals who genuinely intend to travel.
Industry experts point out that this decision reflects a broader digital governance trend in India, where Aadhaar has become a backbone for authenticating citizens across multiple services. While Aadhaar was already mandatory for Tatkal tickets, this extension to general tickets strengthens the framework of identification in public transport. For frequent travellers, the advantage of earlier access could mean the difference between securing a confirmed seat and being left on the waiting list.
The linking process is relatively simple. Passengers can log in to their IRCTC account via the website or mobile app, access the Aadhaar KYC option under the ‘My Account’ tab, and complete verification through a one-time password sent to their Aadhaar-registered mobile number. Once verified, the account is permanently enabled for priority booking. Officials added that passengers who prefer offline booking at counters will not be affected by this rule.
Analysts note that this change could also help the Railways streamline data for better planning and resource allocation. Verified identities reduce the risks of fraudulent bookings and provide valuable insights into passenger demand patterns, which can guide decisions on train frequency and capacity. In the long run, such measures align with the government’s digitalisation and sustainability goals, cutting down on paper-based processes and enhancing operational efficiency.
However, concerns remain regarding digital inclusivity. Some experts caution that passengers without access to smartphones or stable internet connections may find themselves at a disadvantage. Others argue that Aadhaar-linked booking privileges should be accompanied by initiatives to expand digital literacy, ensuring that benefits are equitably distributed.For now, the Railways’ bold step signals a structural change in how Indians access one of the country’s most relied-upon public services. As millions depend on trains daily, this rule is set to reshape the dynamics of ticket booking and test the balance between digital advancement and equitable access.
