A Tatkal ticket booking system of the Indian Railways is an excellent method of easing last minute travel situation of passengers. The railways have created new regulations that are supposed to offer more transparency and security in this system, as of 2025. This article will provide you with details of the new regulations, fees and process involved with Tatkal reservation of the tickets, and thus you may plan your journey with less difficulties.
Obtaining Aadhaar Verification Is Mandatory
Since 1 July 2025, positive Aadhaar validation was a required input to acquiring a Tatkal ticket. IRCTC allows the booking of the tickets on either an IRCTC web page or an application only after verification by the Aadhaar username or number. This move has been undertaken to avoid black marketing and the preference to real passengers.
OTP Based Verification
Aadhaar enabled OTP verification will be made mandatory to book Tatkal tickets with effect w.e.f July 15, 2025. The procedure will be used both online and in PRS counters. This will ensure that the booking process is to be more secure.
Limits To Agents
According to the revised guidelines, agents will not be given permission to make tatkal reservation of AC (1A, 2A and 3A) and non-AC classes during the initial 30 minutes. It is 10:00 am to 10.30 am (AC) and 11:00 am to 11.30 am (non-AC).
Tatkal Fee Structure
There is a standard percentage of the fare added as the Tatkal ticket fee. It will be 10 percent on second class and 30 percent on other classes (AC and sleeper). To give an example, when the sleeper class fare is Rs 500 then the tatkal will be Rs 150 on extra.
Booking Time
The booking in Tatkal is a one day before a journey. The booking of AC and non-AC classes start respectively at 10.00 am and 11.0.00 am. The time gives equal chance to passengers.[] cbs-af-level-playing-field
Cancellation And Return
Tatkal tickets have no refund on cancellation, unless, a train is cancelled. The rule motivates the passengers to book intelligently.
Technical Support
IRCTC app and website has become user friendly. There is a technical update that makes Aadhaar verification and OTP process simple. This makes the booking speedy and safe.
Advantages To Passengers
The new laws are meant to curb black marketing and prioritize to the real passengers. The availabilities of tickets would enhance because of Aadhaar verification and the prohibition of agents.
Conclusion
Tatkal regulations of 2025 are more transparent and convenient to the passengers. Measures such as Aadhaar verification, OTP and agent prohibition make sure that the tickets are delivered to appropriate individuals. To make your journey smooth and hustle free plan your journey and go by these rules.
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