IRCTC new train ticket booking rules: Aadhaar authentication must for reservation of tickets in first 15 minutes from Oct 1

With the peak festive season approaching, the Ministry of Railways has announced new IRCTC train ticket booking rules to curb the misuse of the reservation system.

The Ministry said that from October 1, 2025, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be allowed to book reserved train tickets in the first 15 minutes of the opening of general reservation.

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According to a circular issued by the Railway Board on Monday, during the first 15 minutes of opening of general reservation, reserved general tickets can be booked through the website and mobile application of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) only by Aadhaar-authenticated users.

The decision has been taken to ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach common end users and are not misused by unscrupulous elements.

A big step towards a smoother ticket-booking experience! pic.x.com/KEIBp48710

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) September 16, 2025

However, there will be no change in the timings of booking of general reserved tickets at computerised PRS counters.

Moreover, the timings of the restriction of 10 minutes of opening of general reservations will also remain unchanged.

During this time, authorised ticket agents will not be allowed to book opening day reserved tickets.

Railways has also directed IRCTC to make necessary system modifications to implement the new reserved ticket booking rules.