If you’re always worried about waiting lists and Tatkal tickets when booking train tickets, there’s some good news for you. Effective January 12, 2026, Indian Railways has made changes to train ticket booking rules that will increase the chances of getting a confirmed reservation and curb the arbitrariness of touts.
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Ticket booking rules change: If you’re always bothered by the waiting list when booking a train ticket, this news brings relief. Starting today, January 12, 2026, Indian Railways has implemented a major change in train ticket booking rules, which will directly benefit ordinary passengers and curb the menace of touts and those who use fake IDs to obtain tickets. The reservation system is now more transparent and secure than ever before.
What has changed from today?
According to Indian Railways and IRCTC, now only Aadhaar-verified IRCTC users will be able to book general reservation tickets on the first day of the Advance Reservation Period (ARP). This means that Aadhaar-authenticated users will be able to book tickets throughout the day (until 12 midnight) on the day the booking window opens. Until January 11th, this facility was available for a limited time. Previously, Aadhaar-verified users were only able to book tickets from 8 am to 12 noon. However, from January 12th, this scope has been extended to the entire day.
How did the rule change previously?
The Railways has implemented this system in a phased manner. Initially, Aadhaar verification was mandatory only 15 minutes before booking opened. Later, it was extended from 8 am to 10 am. Then, on December 29, 2025, it was extended until 12 noon, and on January 5, 2026, the time was extended until 4 pm. Now, from January 12, this facility has been implemented throughout the day.
What benefits will ordinary passengers get?
This new change will increase the chances of ordinary passengers getting confirmed tickets. This is because booking tickets through fake accounts, bots, and brokers will now be difficult. According to the Railways, approximately 57.3 million IRCTC accounts have recently been closed or suspended, which were suspicious or had not been used for a long time. This will reduce unnecessary pressure on the ticket booking system and genuine passengers will benefit from receiving tickets first.
No Changes at PRS Counters
It’s worth noting that there have been no changes to the ticket booking process at computerized PRS counters. This new rule will only apply to those booking tickets online and through apps.
What is the Railways’ objective?
The Railway Ministry says that Aadhaar verification and advanced technology are being used to eliminate touts, stop ticket black marketing, and ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach the rightful passengers.
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