Indian Railways has introduced a new security measure, making OTP verification mandatory for Tatkal ticket bookings. Under this system, passengers will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on the mobile number provided at the time of booking, and the ticket will be issued only after successful verification. The new system will come into effect on December 1 and aims to ensure transparency, reduce misuse, and make Tatkal tickets more accessible to genuine travellers. In the first phase, OTP-based authentication will be rolled out on the Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express and later extended across the railway network and all booking platforms.
Indian Railways Announces OTP Requirement
- OTP verification becomes mandatory for all Tatkal bookings from December 1.
- Ticket issuance will be completed only after OTP validation.
- OTP will be sent to the mobile number entered during booking.
- First-phase rollout on Train No. 12009/12010 (Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express).
- Expansion planned for all trains in subsequent phases.
- Applicable on the IRCTC website, mobile app, and railway booking counters.
- Aims to prevent misuse and ensure fair access to Tatkal tickets.
- Introduced as per Railway Board guidelines to enhance security.
- Supports transparency and benefits genuine passengers.
- Aadhaar authentication is required between 8 am and 10 am for day-one reservations from October 28, 2025.
