New IRCTC Rules:

Indian Railways has introduced several new rules and changes in ticket booking and charges, aimed at improving the transparency and ease of services for passengers. These changes, which came into effect from July 2025, affect both the booking process and ticket prices. Let’s explore these updates in detail.

New IRCTC Rules:

1. Aadhaar Required for Tatkal Tickets

Starting July 1, 2025, passengers booking Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile app will need to link their Aadhaar number to their IRCTC account. Only those passengers whose Aadhaar details are verified will be able to book Tatkal tickets online. This change aims to ensure better security and accountability for fast ticket bookings.

2. OTP for Counter and Agent Bookings

For those booking Tatkal tickets at PRS counters or through authorized agents, OTP (One Time Password) will be required starting July 15, 2025. This additional step will provide an extra layer of verification and security to prevent fraudulent ticket bookings.

3. Agent Booking Time Restrictions

Railways has now imposed time restrictions on authorized agents for booking tickets. From July 1, 2025, agents will not be allowed to book AC class tickets between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM, and non-AC tickets between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM. This restriction is designed to give priority to general passengers during these hours.

4. Changes in Train Fares and New Charges

Starting July 1, 2025, several premium and special trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, and others will witness an increase in fares. This is due to the new pricing model for trains covering distances over 500 km. For example:

A fare increase of Rs. 5 for distances between 501 km and 1,500 km

Rs. 10 for distances between 1,501 km and 2,500 km

Rs. 15 for distances between 2,501 km and 3,000 km

Additionally, the First Class AC ticket prices have seen an increase of 0.5 paise per kilometer, and sleeper class fares have been increased by 1 paise per kilometer.

5. Reservation Chart Preparation

Another significant change involves the preparation of the reservation chart. Previously, the chart was prepared only four hours before the train’s departure. However, with the new rules, the chart will now be prepared eight hours in advance to allow more time for adjustments and avoid last-minute rushes.

6. Changes in General Class Charges

The second-class ticket charges for non-AC trains have also been revised. The charges have increased by 0.5 paise per kilometer. However, there are exceptions for shorter journeys under 500 km, where the fare remains the same. For longer distances, the fare increase will vary depending on the distance traveled.

7. GST on Tickets

As per the existing regulations, Goods and Services Tax (GST) will continue to apply on train ticket prices. There will be no changes in the GST structure, and it will be added to the total fare based on the applicable rates.

What Passengers Should Do

With these new rules, passengers need to:

1. Link their Aadhaar to their IRCTC accounts for seamless Tatkal bookings.

2. Be aware of the OTP requirement when booking tickets through counters and agents.

3. Plan their bookings around the restricted time slots for agents.

4. Expect fare increases, particularly for long-distance journeys and premium trains.

5. Check the reservation chart ahead of time as the preparation time has increased.

By staying informed about these changes, travelers can make their train journeys smoother and more convenient.

Also Read:Aamir Khan’s Coolie Cameo: What We Know About His Mysterious Role

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