Railways Embrace Aadhaar Authentication for Tatkal Tickets
The Railway Ministry has authorized CRIS to authenticate Aadhaar IDs for passengers, ticket-checking staff, and crew members. The initiative aims to facilitate hassle-free Tatkal ticket booking and prevent malpractices. Aadhaar verification is voluntary, but customers will receive priority in booking if authenticated.

- Country:
- India
The Railway Ministry has granted the Centre for Railway Information System (CRIS) the ability to perform Aadhaar authentication for establishing passenger identity.
A May 27, 2025, Gazette notification announced that the authentication would be voluntary, impacting ticket-checking staff, crew members, and passengers. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that e-Aadhaar authentication would aid genuine users in obtaining confirmed Tatkal tickets.
Currently, IRCTC utilizes third-party services for Aadhaar authentication. However, the new directive promises faster processing. With over 130 million active IRCTC users, only 12 million are Aadhaar-verified. The ministry encourages account holders to link their Aadhaar for priority Tatkal booking.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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