New train ticket rules kick in today — good news for IRCTC Aadhaar users

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A major change in the IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) train ticket booking rules has come into effect on Monday, January 12, 2026. Aadhaar-verified users will now be able to book tickets until midnight on the day of the Advance Reservation Period (ARP). This change is being touted as convenient for passengers.

Changes to PRS Counter Bookings:

The Railway Ministry has clarified that the process of booking tickets at computerized PRS counters will remain the same. Only Aadhaar-verified users will be allowed to book general reserved tickets on the first day of the advance reservation period.

The Ministry of Railways stated

on January 6, 2026, that Aadhaar verification is mandatory. The purpose is to prevent misuse of the e-ticketing system and ensure passenger safety. The latest technology is also being used for this.

Old Rule

Earlier, Aadhaar verified users could book reserved tickets from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm on the day the booking window opened.

Change sequence

Phase 1: Aadhaar authentication mandatory 15 minutes before reservation starts.

Phase 2: Ticket booking through Aadhaar from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Phase 3 (December 29, 2025): Booking from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Phase 4 (January 5, 2026): Booking facility from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Now (January 12, 2026): Aadhaar verified users can book tickets till midnight.

This new change will give passengers more flexibility in ticket booking and it will be easier to get tickets during the advance reservation period.