Tatkal is a special quota with Indian Railways for urgent travel requirements. It opens a day before the journey date, other than the travel day. The Tatkal scheme is meant for emergencies, business, or last-moment plans. Updates of 2025 would target elements of transparency and misuse. There are fixed seats across classes.
Key Updates of 2025
The Indian Railways changed the Tatkal scheme rules effective July 1, 2025. This is to use Aadhaar authentication, thereby allowing for genuine users to access Tatkal tickets. Hence OTP verification for all bookings was introduced. Restrictions for agents booking in bulk were also added. Seat distribution should be as fair as possible through these changes.
Aadhaar Authentication Must
From July 1, 2025 onwards, IRCTC online Tatkal bookings have to be linked to an identity on Aadhaar, otherwise the account cannot even access the quota. Link accounts on the IRCTC website or app via Aadhaar details. This measure blocks agents or bots from hoarding tickets. The passenger has to carry out this procedure before entering the booking window.
OTP Verification Process
All bookings under Tatkal need criminal verification by an Aadhaar OTP starting from 15 July 2025. For online, enter that passcode sent to your registered mobile. For PRS counters and agents, give your Aadhaar for OTP generation. This confirms one’s identity and prevents fraudulent bookings. Upon failure to verify, the booking automatically gets cancelled.
Agent Booking Restrictions
Authorized agents get banned for a 30 minute period starting at the start of the booking. Bookings for AC classes will not be allowed between 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, and for non-AC are from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This is to give precedence to individual passengers. Agents may continue booking after this period, but only with OTP verification.
Booking Timings and Classes
Tatkal for AC classes opens from 10 A.M. of the previous day. Non-AC ones open from 11 A.M. Available in Sleeper, Second Sitting, Third AC, Second AC but not in First AC or Executive. Maximum number of passengers in one PNR should be four. No concessions for seniors or children.
Charges and Cancellation Rules
Tatkal charges extra fees, varying with class and distance. ₹100-₹200 are charged for Second Class, with AC classes receiving charges up to ₹400. There are no refunds for confirmed tickets after the chart has been prepared. Waitlisted tickets get canceled automatically if they remain unconfirmed. If cancellation happens at least 30 minutes before departure, partial refunds can be entertained.
How to Book Tatkal Tickets
Log in to IRCTC with an Aadhaar-linked account one day in advance. Select the Tatkal quota during your search. Enter the OTP received on the mobile number during payment. For counters, go in advance with your Aadhaar card. Use apps like ixigo or redBus to quickly check the schedule. Become aware of the availability in real-time.
| Aspect | Pre-2025 Rules | 2025 Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Requirement | Optional | Mandatory for online from July 1 |
| OTP Verification | Not required | Mandatory for all from July 15 |
| Agent Booking Window | Full access from start | Restricted first 30 minutes |
| AC Booking Time | 10:00 AM | 10:00 AM (agents after 10:30 AM) |
| Non-AC Booking Time | 11:00 AM | 11:00 AM (agents after 11:30 AM) |
| Max Passengers per PNR | 4 | 4 |
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