Last Updated:
From October 1, the Railway Ministry will allow only Aadhaar-authenticated users to book reserved general tickets through the IRCTC website or app during the first 15 minutes.
Aadhaar must for first 15 minutes of train tickets booking. (Representative Image)
The Railway Ministry will allow users to book reserved general tickets through the IRCTC website or app during the first 15 minutes after booking opens for any train from October 1. However, the ministry clarified that the app will allow only Aadhaar-authenticated users to use this facility. Currently, this restriction applies only to Tatkal bookings.
“With a view to ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach the common end user and are not misused by unscrupulous elements, it has been decided that with effect from 1.10.2025, during the first 15 minutes of opening of general reservation, reserved general tickets can be booked through the website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/its app only by Aadhaar authenticated users,” the ministry circular read.
Recommended Stories
The circular added that after 15 minutes, authorised ticket agents will be allowed to book online reservations.
Notably, there will be no change in timing for booking of general reserved tickets through computerised PRS counters of Indian Railways.
“There shall also be no change in the timing of restriction of 10 minutes of opening of general reservation during which authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways shall not be allowed to book opening day reserved tickets.”
Officials clarified that the Railway Ministry had already imposed a 10-minute restriction on agents to book general reservations from the counter. “The circular has retained the said restriction,” an official said.
The circular said, “CRIS and IRCTC shall make necessary modifications in the system accordingly under intimation to all zonal railways as well as this office.”
“Earlier, we had issued a circular that imposed a 15-minute restriction for Tatkal bookings. Considering the benefits of that order, we have now decided to extend this facility to general reservation bookings as well,” a ministry official said.
About the Author
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
September 16, 2025, 11:13 IST
Loading comments…
Read More
