By [Piyali Bakshi] June 24, 2025
In a notable move, Indian Railways has decided to increase passenger train fares for the first time in several years. This fare revision will come into effect from July 1, 2025, and will apply to select categories of trains.
According to sources, the fare for non-AC Mail/Express trains will rise by 1 paise per kilometre, while fares for AC classes will increase by 2 paise per kilometre. However, suburban trains and second-class travel will remain unaffected for journeys up to 500 kilometres. For travel beyond 500 kilometres, there will be a marginal increase of 0.5 paise per kilometre. Additionally, the monthly season tickets (MST) will see no price change.
Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory for Tatkal Bookings
Alongside the fare hike, the Railway Ministry has introduced new guidelines for Tatkal ticket bookings. Starting July 1, 2025, passengers must be Aadhaar-authenticated users to book Tatkal tickets via the IRCTC website or mobile app.
This decision was formally communicated through a directive issued on June 10, 2025, to all railway zones. The ministry stated that the step is aimed at ensuring that the benefits of the Tatkal scheme reach genuine passengers, and to reduce misuse by unauthorized agents.
OTP Verification Step from July 15
In addition to Aadhaar authentication, from July 15, 2025, all Tatkal ticket bookings will also require OTP-based Aadhaar verification. This extra layer of security is intended to enhance transparency and security during the booking process.
New Booking Restrictions for Agents
To further prevent misuse of the Tatkal scheme, the Ministry has also restricted booking times for authorized agents. Agents will not be allowed to book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of opening:
-
For AC classes: No bookings allowed by agents from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
-
For non-AC classes: No bookings allowed from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
These measures are aimed at giving individual passengers a fairer chance to book Tatkal tickets.
System Updates Underway
To facilitate these changes, both the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been directed to make the necessary system updates and coordinate with all zonal railway divisions.
These steps mark a significant modernization and tightening of the ticketing system in Indian Railways.
