Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 22: In a significant move aimed at curbing fraudulent bookings, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has made Aadhaar verification mandatory for booking train tickets online.

Under the revised rules, passengers will have to complete Aadhaar authentication to verify their identity before booking tickets through the IRCTC platform. The move is intended to ensure that tickets are booked by genuine users and to reduce misuse of the system.

According to IRCTC, the measure will make the booking process more transparent and secure, particularly for Tatkal and Advance Reservation Period (ARP) tickets. Reports indicate that Aadhaar verification is expected to strengthen security and minimise fraudulent practices on the portal.

IRCTC has clarified that only Aadhaar-verified users will be permitted to book tickets on the first day of the Advance Reservation Period (ARP). Those who have not completed Aadhaar authentication will not be allowed to make bookings on the opening day of ARP.

The new rule also makes Aadhaar verification compulsory for Tatkal ticket bookings. The decision is aimed at preventing misuse of the high-demand Tatkal quota and ensuring fair access to passengers.

IRCTC stated that Aadhaar-based authentication has already helped in significantly reducing fake and unauthorised user accounts, thereby enabling fairer distribution of ARP and Tatkal tickets.

Meanwhile, IRCTC has also introduced an e-pantry service for the convenience of passengers. The facility allows travellers to pre-book meals before their journey and receive delivery at their berths after the train departs. The service has currently been launched on 25 trains and will be available only on those where food is not included in the ticket fare. It is expected to benefit passengers travelling on trains without onboard pantry facilities.