If you're planning to travel by Indian Railways soon, there are some key changes you need to be aware of. Officials recently announced plans to hike specific fares. Moreover, passengers need to know that Aadhaar-based OTP verification is set to become mandatory for Tatkal ticket bookings from July 1, 2025. Either or both of these developments may affect your travel plans for the future. But what exactly are the key takeaways you need to be informed about? Find out below.
More About Indian Railways Fare Hikes
As per Indian Railway officials, a 1 paisa/km hike in fares of non-AC class tickets in Mail/Express trains and a 2 paisa/km increase in fares of AC classes will reportedly come into effect from July 1, 2025. "As compared to the previous fare revisions in 2020 and 2013, the current increase will be the lowest," one official said, as quoted by PTI.
If you wish to travel by suburban trains or with monthly season tickets, you need to worry. The increase in fare will not apply to these options. Additionally, ordinary second-class fare will not be increased for up to 500 km and for distances beyond that, ticket prices might increase by half a paisa/km.
Also Read: Travelling To Rishikesh From Bengaluru Just Got Easier, Thanks To Launch Of Special Train
Is Aadhaar Verification Compulsory For Train Ticket Booking?
Starting from July 1, 2025, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be able to book Tatkal tickets through IRCTC's official website and mobile app. Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will become mandatory for online Tatkal bookings from July 15 onwards. Tatkal tickets booked at computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters and through authorised agents will also require OTP authentication. The aim of these changes is "to ensure fair and transparent access and remove middlemen from the booking process," reported ANI.
Authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways will not be allowed to book opening-day Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window (10:00 am to 10:30 am for AC classes, and from 11:00 am to 11:30 am for non-AC classes). The objective of this move is to help prevent bulk bookings.
Also Read: Indian Railways Launches SwaRail App: 10 Key Facts To Know
How To Add Aadhaar Card Details For Train Booking
If your Aadhaar Card is already linked to your IRCTC Account, here's how you can complete the authentication process:
1. Log in to your IRCTC account through the official website or app.
2. In the 'My Account' section, click on 'Authenticate User'.
3. Provide your Aadhaar number, PAN number or Virtual ID.
4. Click on 'Verify Details'.
5. Enter the OTP sent to the mobile number connected to your Aadhaar card. Click on the consent box and then hit 'Submit' to complete the process.
If your Aadhaar card is not yet linked to your IRCTC Account, here's what you need to do:
1. Open the IRCTC website and log in with your credentials.
2. Go to the Profile tab and select 'Link Aadhaar'.
3. Enter your full name and input your Aadhaar number. Ensure that your name is precisely as it is printed on your Aadhaar Card.
4. Click on the 'Send OTP' button.
5. You should get an OTP on your registered mobile number. Input the OTP and then click to verify it.
6. Once verified, the necessary personal details will be retrieved from Aadhaar. Hit 'Update' to finish the process. You should receive a confirmation message once Aadhaar linking and KYC verification are successfully completed.
In related news, the Indian Railways recently also announced that it is working to issue passenger reservation charts 24 hours before the departure time of a train. Click here to find out more about it.
